Lagos Assembly Muslim Community Cautions Protesters
The Lagos State House of Assembly Muslim community has cautioned the youth to be mindful of the consequences of protests that may lead to violence and destruction of property.
In a statement released by the League of Imams of the Lagos State House of Assembly Muslim community, led by Abdul Shakur Osoala, it was emphasized that “Islam always emphasizes peace, love, and dialogue.”
Osoala recalled that the violence and destruction of government properties during the #EndSARS protest would remain in the minds of Nigerian citizens.
He specifically mentioned the properties destroyed in Lagos State, including the burning of BRT buses at Oyingbo, Yaba; the burning of Television Continental (TVC); Igbosere Magistrate Court; and several police stations, among others. These properties, bought and constructed with taxpayers’ hard-earned money, have yet to be replaced.
Quoting from the Holy Quran, Osoala said, “Inna Ma’al usri yusran” – “For every hardship, there is relief.”
He urged the youth to distance themselves from the protest and refrain from being used to cause havoc in society, advocating for peaceful engagement with the government and shunning any form of violence.
The Muslim community also appealed to the government to engage in dialogue with the youth and provide immediate relief to address their grievances. “We all believe that the hardship facing Nigerians, though painful, is certainly a passing phase, judging by the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
Osoala also implored security agencies not to be aggressive with the protesters but rather to protect them as citizens during the protest.
