Oyo Deputy Gov Urges Prayers for Oriire Kidnap Victims at Hijrah 1448 Rally, Assures Safe Return

Oyo State Deputy Governor, Barr. Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, has urged Muslims to use the 1448 Hijrah celebration to intensify prayers for the safe return of those abducted in Oriire Local Government 37 days ago.

Speaking on Sunday through Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Babatunde Musibaudeen, at the Hijrah awareness rally held at Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, the deputy governor called on Muslims to support federal and state governments’ efforts to secure lives and property. 

He also urged vigilance and responsiveness to aid security agencies.

The rally, organized by the National Council of Muslim Youth Organizations, NACOMYO, Oyo State chapter, was held under the theme: “Contemporary Crises of Humanity: Pathways to Moral Renewal, Global Peace and Social Security: Muslims on Call.”

Barr. Lawal stated that the lessons of Hijrah remain relevant at a time when society faces challenges that require unity and understanding.

He said: “The Hijrah, the migration of Prophet Muhammad, SAW, from Makkah to Madinah, represents far more than a change of location. It symbolizes sacrifice, courage, perseverance, faith, hope, and the pursuit of justice and peace,” he said. 

“As we commemorate the beginning of the Islamic calendar, we are reminded of the values that defined the life and mission of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, SAW: compassion, honesty, humility, peaceful coexistence, respect for others, and service to humanity.

“We must continue to promote peace, tolerance, mutual respect, and cooperation among all citizens, regardless of differences.”

While commending Islamic scholars, community leaders and organizers for promoting moral values, education and social responsibility, the Deputy Governor also recognized the discipline of participants and security personnel at the event.

“On this auspicious occasion of Hijrah 1448 AH, I pray that Almighty Allah grants us wisdom, strengthens our faith, blesses our families and communities, and guides our nation toward greater peace, prosperity and unity. May the new Islamic year bring blessings, progress and renewed hope to us all,” he concluded. 

Earlier in his remarks, the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Daud Makanjuola De-Damark, congratulated the Muslim Ummah on Hijrah 1448 AH and commended NACOMYO, Oyo State for sustaining the annual Hijrah awareness rally.

He urged Muslims to promote the spiritual celebration rather than turn it into a political tool or means of self-aggrandizement.

In his words: “The Hijrah of Prophet Muhammad, SAW, teaches us faith, sacrifice, perseverance, unity and purposeful leadership. As we begin this new Islamic year, I urge all Muslims to reflect on these values and recommit themselves to righteousness, service to humanity and nation building.”

De-damak joined the Deputy Governor in calling for prayers for the Oriire abductees and urged Muslims to remain united, law-abiding and supportive of security efforts as elections approach.

NACOMYO Oyo State Coordinator, Alhaji Daud Bolaji Afolabi, in his welcome address, said the abductees of Ahoro-Esin and Yawota in Oriire LGA remain in captivity. He noted the death in captivity last week of former Army spokesman Maj. Gen. Rabe Abubakar.

Afolabi said the rally’s theme was apt given current security challenges. He announced a prayer session led by a renowned cleric and welcomed pilgrims who participated in Hajj 2026.

He felicitated newly appointed imams and commended Dr. Junaid Ogundiran for completing an ultra-modern mosque in Sepeteri. He also prayed for Gov. Seyi Makinde and congratulated Prof. Sikirat Aderinoye-AbdulWahab on her inaugural lecture at the University of Ilorin.

Afolabi, however, commended the deputy governor for intervening when pilgrims were stranded while traveling to and from the airport for Hajj.

The Guest lecturer, Sheikh Khalifah Muhammad Qasim Ajisafe Akilapa, during his sermon, said Hijrah means moving from bad deeds to good deeds. He further stated that insecurity is rooted in the loss of truth, honesty and justice, and urged citizens to support government through prayer and lawfulness.

Highlights of the event included a march-past by Islamic schools and awards presented to notable Muslim personalities, including SSG Prof. Musibaudeen Babatunde and Mogaji Adanla.

Dignitaries who were present included Giwa Adinni of Oyo state and APM deputy governorship candidate, Engr. Muftau Open Salawu, Commissioners Alhaja Joke Sanni and Prof. Soliu Abdulwaheed, council chairmen of Egbeda, Oluyole and Lagelu, Grand Chief Imam of Ibadanland Sheikh Abdul-Ganiyu Agbotomokekere, and other clerics and royal fathers.