Obasa links national security to spiritual duty
The University of Lagos Muslim Alumni (UMA) has called for unity and condemned violence, warning that insecurity continues to threaten lives and stability across the country.

The event, held at the weekend, at the J.F. Ade Ajayi Main Auditorium, University of Lagos, Akoka, drew several dignitaries, including Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, who was represented by his deputy, Umar Usman Kadafur; the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa; and the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, among others.

President of UMA, Dr Mumini Alao, who spoke at the lecture, themed “The Light Beyond: Guiding Our Souls to Paradise,” said the association supports Nigeria’s democratic system and peaceful transfer of power through elections.

He, however, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to improve the electoral process to ensure free and fair elections.

Alao warned against foreign intervention in the country’s affairs, noting that history has shown that such actions often leave nations worse off.

He said insecurity affects Nigerians of all faiths and called on citizens to unite against criminal elements, regardless of the religion they claim.

In his keynote address, Prof. Oloyede described the current security situation in Nigeria as painful and troubling. He referred to recent deadly attacks in parts of Niger, Borno, Kaduna and Kwara states, as well as renewed militant violence in other regions.

Also, Obasa said that the pursuit of a safer Nigeria is as much a divine mandate as the journey to paradise.

He, however, stated that the fight against insecurity is not merely a matter of policing, but a collective spiritual duty.

The Speaker identified economic hardship as the primary driver of the country’s current volatility, saying, “Insecurity is a function of poverty. Security is not about the police alone; it is about all of us.”

He, therefore, urged citizens to adopt a more vigilant and communal approach to safety, suggesting that apathy is a luxury the country can no longer afford.