FG Urged To Convene National Dialogue On Insecurity
Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
The Federal Government has been called upon to convene a national dialogue in order to end the protracted security challenges bedeviling the nation.
Former Vice Chancellor, University of Abuja, Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, made the call on Thursday in Ilorin, the Kwara state capital, during a Public Lecture titled, “Religious Harmony, Cultural Presentation and Community Service: The Significance of Ilorin Emirate Pulpit” and book presentation in honour of the Chief Imam of Ilorin,nSheikh Muhammad Bashir Solih, the Spiritual Orator.
He advised government to do a census of those in the city and the bushes to ensure safety and security.
Professor Na’Allah also advocated the adoption of Ilorin style of neighbourhood watch to ensure peaceful coexistence across the country.
According to him, the Islamic knowledge being inculcated in children has moulded their characters to become good citizens.
The University Don noted that the cultural diversity of the Ilorin Emirate, which contributed in no small measure to the peaceful nature of the state in general, can not be found in any part of the country .
In his address, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who was represented by the Senior Councillor and Adviser, Alhaji Sa’adudeen Salaudeen, said the Chief Imam has made massive footprints in Ilorin, Kwara State and beyond.
He commended the doggedness of the Chief Imam in the presentation of sermons that promote peaceful coexistence in the State.
For his part, the Book Reviewer, former Dean, Postgraduate School, University of Ilorin, Professor Badmas Yusuf, represented by Dr, Abdulhamid Badmas, said the Chief Imam of Ilorin is a model that should be emulated.
He said the book has clearly shown the work of the Chief Imam, his virtues and how he works for peace.
Professor Yusuf advised the author to do more and ensure update through subsequent publications.
In his remarks, the Author of the Book and Convener of the programme, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, said the purpose of the publication of the book is to educate the public on the good works of the Chief Imam of Ilorin.
He said the Chief Imam’s sermons had been very impactful, speaking truth to power as well as serving as a guide for the residents of the state.
Arowona said the content of the sermons have been geared towards ensuring peaceful coexistence in the society.