GLAMOUR AS AMBODE, ROYAL HEADS, LEGISLATORS, NOTABLE PERSONALITIES, OTHERS, WITNESS COMMISSIONING OF ULTRA-MODERN IGBOGBO CENTRAL MOSQUE. | Shakiru Seidu.

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulsemiu Orimadegun Kasali, Adeboruwa of Igbogbo land and Fadeelatul-Sheik Al-Imam Dhikrullahi Andu Tanimose, Grand Imam Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA, on Friday in Igbogbo, Lagos State, led over 10 Monarchs, highly respected religious leaders, traditional Chiefs, State and federal Legislators, former State Cabinet members, Council Chiefs and good people of Igbogbo Kingdom, to commission the town’s Ultra-Modern Central Mosque. The structure which was firstly built in 1901, was recently completed, many years after its foundation was laid.

The Igbogbo monarch was accompanied by His Royal Majesties, Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Ranodu of Imota, Olubeshe of Ibeshe, Ojora of Ijora, Oba Elegushi, Sekumade of Ipakodo, Elejigbo of Ejigbo, and other Royal Heads from across Lagos State. The building of the mosque located at Odofin Street, commenced many years ago, but due to inadequate of funding, the mosque was unable to reach completion on time.

Upon assuming the throne as the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo, the current monarch, Oba Abdulsemiu Orimadegun Kasali, began the call for public support to get the mosque completed. He therefore thanked the Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, for ensuring the completion of the mosque.

He commended Ambode's government for promoting Islam in the state. He said the building of the mosque was historic. “This is not an ordinary mosque; it is also a resource centre for Islamic education,” he said.

“This is how our mosques should be designed; a worship place and centre for education,” he added. The monarch also called on the political leaders to always assist traditional institutions, being the custodian of cultures.

In his eloquent address, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode felicitated with the people of Igbogbo Kingdom, called on them to utilise the mosque very well. He also commended the Igbogbo monarch and other top monarchs who attended the opening.

Ambode, who was represented by Commissioner for Home Affairs, Dr Abdulateef AbdulAkeem, said "apart from pursuing Islamic education, the people of the state must embrace education because the world is changing and Igbogbo must key in”. He enjoined the people of Igbogbo to maintain peaceful coexistence and assured that his government will look into the issue of compensation on the demolished structures in Igbogbo.

Among other notable personalities at the official commissioning were the Chairman of the day, Alhaji (Dr) Sakariyau Olayiwola Babalola OON, Member House of Reps, representing Ikorodu federal constituency, Hon Babajimi Benson, Member House of Assembly, Ikorodu II, Hon Nurudeen Sholaja-Saka, Lay President, UAMC worldwide, Dr Akinola Ogunlewe, Member Seventh Assembly and former Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon Adebimpe Akinsola, Alhaji Ganiyu Odusanya (mni), Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun, ably represented by his amiable wife, Chief Mrs Bolanle Basorun, former Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola, ably represented by Mr AbdulAkeem Kosoko and former HOS, Prince Adesegun Ogunlewe.

Others were the spiritual father of the day, His Eminence Sheik (Engr) Sulaimon Oluwatoyin Abou-Nolla, Chief Imam of Lagos, Guest lecturer, Sheik Ahmad Anophy Al-Mubaraq, Chief Imam Ikorodu, Sheik S. Olowooribi, the host, Chairman Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA, Comr Olusesan Daini, Chairman Ikorodu North, Hon Banjo Adeola Adebisi, Christian leaders led by CAN President, Pastor Alokan, league of Imams, amongst other notable dignitaries.

Expect more details in our next Edition.

SHAKIRU SEIDU
Publisher, MegaXpression Community Magazine.
The genuine VOICE of Ikorodu Division.