APC’s Alli, Accord’s Hamzat join Muslims in Ibadan for Hijrah celebration

By Adejayan Gbenga

The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, and the Accord Party governorship candidate, Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, were among prominent personalities who attended the Hijrah 1448 AH celebration in Akanran, Ibadan.

The event, which held on Saturday at Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort attracted more than 50,000 Muslim faithful, including Islamic scholars, Chief Imams, traditional rulers, political office holders and community leaders to mark the Islamic New Year with prayers for Nigeria and its leaders.

The celebration was hosted by the Okanlomo of Oodua and Bada Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, under the spiritual leadership of the Grand Chief Imam of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Sheikh Abdulganiy Agbotomokekere, alongside other Islamic leaders from across Oyo State.

Also present at the event were Senator Yunus Akintunde, Hon. Aderemi Oseni, Hon. Shina Alabi, Hon. Faruk Arisekola, Hon. Abdulganiy GRA, the Asiwaju Adini of Oyo State, Alhaji Mutiullahi Oladejo Onimalu, the Turaki Adini of Oyo State, Engr. Abduljelyl Adekunle Karheem Mogaji Adanla, as well as several political and religious leaders.

Delivering the keynote sermon, Sheikh Alawaye described Hijrah as a symbol of sacrifice, perseverance, righteousness and unwavering faith, urging Muslims to remain committed to peace, justice, tolerance and responsible citizenship while praying for Nigeria’s continued stability and development.

Major Islamic organisations, including the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN), NASFAT, QUAREEB and the League of Imams and Alfas of Oyo State, also participated in the celebration, demonstrating unity within the Muslim community.

In the same vein, special prayers were offered for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, seeking divine wisdom, good health and success in leading the country. Worshippers also prayed for lasting peace, improved security, economic prosperity and sustained development across Nigeria and Oyo State.

The event ended with goodwill messages of Hijrah Mubarak 1448 AH as participants expressed hope that the new Islamic year would usher in greater unity, peace and prosperity.