The Muslim Community of Lagos State (MCLS) has called on all Nigerians to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding with the turn of events in the past few days as an aftermath of the EndSARS protests, noting that the country cannot afford further loss of lives and property.
In a press statement issued by its President, Professor Tajudeen Gbadamosi, MCLS decried the shooting of unarmed protesters by uniformed men at Lekki, noting that prompt investigation and prosecution of those responsible be done.
The statement reads: “The Muslim Community of Lagos State (MCLS) has been concerned about happenings lately, particularly the recent turn of events as regards #ENDSARS protest. The widespread videos of uniformed armed men shooting unarmed protesters gave conscientious citizens a sleepless night.
“It is with heavy hearts, therefore, that we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of victims of the shootings at Lekki. We pray that Allah consoles them. We also pray for the quick and full recovery of protesters who are still nursing different degrees of injuries.”
The Lagos Muslim community also condemned the wanton destruction and invasion of both public and private facilities in Lagos State, saying such chaos and lawlessness are unprecedented.
“Subsequent events were traumatic. Disgruntled elements went on a rampage, burning both public and private buildings, destroying public facilities, and looting business premises. Chaos and lawlessness which we have never seen before have since prevailed in our dear State.
“At this stage, we must show appreciation of the efforts of our protesting youths to end police brutality. More importantly, we must appreciate the poignant manner they drew our attention to the myriads of sins of omission or commission in our system. Above all, we must show appreciation for their noble intention to build a better and more efficient country.
“We must show appreciation of the sustained efforts of the State government to manage the unfolding events. More importantly, we must appreciate the personal and close attention even to details by the State Governor. Above all, we must appreciate his heroic commitment to the vision of building a greater Lagos even out of the ashes of destruction.
“The Muslim Community of Lagos State (MCLS) is hereby calling on all, government and citizens, to ensure that calm and peace remain our watchword, as our country cannot afford further loss of lives and property.
“We support prompt investigation and prosecution of those responsible for the shootings, not only to ensure justice for the victims but also to prevent a repeat of such avoidable loss of human lives. Our value for human life must precede other considerations.”
MCLS quoted the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) in asserting that Islam places a high premium on life and discourages violence in its entirety, noting: “Violence in any form detracts from the nobility of a cause.”
The Varsity Don re-emphasized the urgent need for all sides in the disagreement to return to the negotiating table for the purpose of agreement on modalities, strategies and timelines.
“We appeal to all sides to go to the negotiating table and secure “agreement on modalities, strategies and timelines” to achieve objectives. For this purpose, the youths may be well advised to define, organise, and scrutinise leaders who represent them.
“Above all, we appeal to all to fear Allah; and endeavour to align our thoughts and actions with divine injunctions.
“O Allah, we beseech You to grant our State and Nation, peace and security. O Allah, guide and protect all of us, have mercy on us, and shower Your blessings copiously on us. Amin.”
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