Hijrah 1448 AH: Makinde’s Govt Committed to Defeating Enemies of Oyo – Barr. Lawal
**…Calls for Unity Against Insecurity*
Oyo State Deputy Governor, Barr. Abdulraheem Adebayo Lawal, has felicitated Muslims in the state on the occasion of 1st Muharram 1448 AH, the Islamic New Year.
Recall that Governor ‘Seyi Makinde’ had earlier declared Tuesday a work-free day to mark the new Islamic calendar year, Hijrah 1448 AH.
The Deputy Governor, in a statement made available to newsmen this evening, described the day as a time for reflection, spiritual renewal, and recommitment to peace and communal harmony.
He noted that Hijrah symbolizes the courage to abandon what is wrong and embrace what is right, adding that it teaches migration to safety, peace, and stability which is sometimes necessary.
According to him, as Muslims mark the Islamic New Year, we must all make a new resolve: to reject violence, embrace peace, and stand as one people against those who seek to divide the state.
Barr. Lawal prayed to Almighty Allah to grant Muslim faithful the opportunity to witness many more years, and prayed for peace, unity, and prosperity for Oyo State and Nigeria.
He also urged residents to remain alert before, during, and after the Hijrah celebrations, and to report suspicious movements to security agencies or through the state Emergency Number, 615.
He said: “As Muslims mark the Islamic New Year, Hijrah symbolizes the courage to abandon what is wrong and embrace what is right. Regardless of religion, ethnicity, or background, we must embrace the spirit of unity it represents. I urge citizens of Oyo State to stand together to defeat those who threaten our peace and future,” he stated.
“This administration, under Governor Seyi Makinde, will continue to work with security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and communities to pursue enemies of the state until they face the full weight of the law.
“The government’s commitment is matched by the sacrifices of security personnel, the vigilance of communities who report crime, and the resilience of people who refuse to be broken by fear. It is my prayer that we overcome this period of insecurity. And I pray that Muslims and non-Muslims will find strength in unity to build the future we truly deserve.”