* Canvasses Muslims unity in light of Hajj and Gaza crisis
* Calls for unwavering faith at Eid-al-Adha
As Muslims around the world mark this year’s Eid-al-Adha, the Amir (President) of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Area Unit, Kamoldeen Abiona, has called for unity, sacrifice, and unwavering faith, while condemning recent acts of religious provocation and deceit targeting Muslim students in a part of the country.
In his Eid-al-Adha goodwill message to Muslims in Lagos and beyond, Amir Abiona congratulated the Muslim Ummah and reminded them of the profound lessons of sacrifice and obedience embedded in the celebration.
“Eid-ul-Adha is more than just a festival. It is a spiritual journey of submission and a reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). It teaches us about prioritizing Allah’s commands above all and sharing love, kindness, and unity in our homes and communities,” he stated.
…commiserates with victims of Mokwa flood
The MSSN Lagos Amir extended heartfelt condolences to the Federal Government, Niger State Government, and especially the people of Mokwa, following the recent devastating flood that resulted in loss of lives, homes, and livelihoods.
“We mourn with the affected families and pray for divine comfort and restoration. Government agencies must step up emergency responses and strengthen proactive disaster management to prevent such tragedies,” he urged.
…calls for Muslim unity on Gaza crisis
Drawing from the symbolism of Hajj as a unifying global *rite*, Abiona urged Muslims to imbibe the spiritual lessons of oneness, equality, and purpose.
“Let us not be divided by sects, tribes, or politics. Just as pilgrims stand shoulder to shoulder in Makkah, Muslims around the world must stand united against oppression — particularly the unjust persecution of our brethren in Gaza. Their pain must become our collective concern,” he said.
* condemns deceitful conversion of Muslim students by Christ Embassy
Abiona expressed outrage over a recent incident involving the Christ Embassy Church, where Muslim students were deceitfully lured into what was presented as an academic and empowerment seminar but later turned out to be a covert religious conversion campaign.
According to reports, the event, themed “Young, Bold and Dynamic,” invited students from public and private schools in **Abuja** (earlier report said Nasarawa) under the guise of empowerment. Upon arrival, students—many visibly *Muslims*—were urged to raise their hands and declare Jesus as Lord and Saviour, after which they were handed “New Convert Cards” to fill out. Some students in hijabs were reportedly among the coerced.
A Muslim teacher present tried to intervene, but her effort was limited due to the overwhelming number of students. Before the event ended, selected students and teachers were reportedly assigned to monitor and report on the religious beliefs of others in their respective schools.
“This is not just unethical – it is dangerous. Such acts of forced or deceitful conversion, especially targeting minors, are a gross violation of religious freedom and parental rights. The government, education authorities, and security agencies must act swiftly to investigate, prosecute, and prevent such violations. We cannot allow this reckless provocation to continue unchecked,” Abiona stated.
He warned that repeated incidents like this are capable of inciting interreligious tensions if not curbed.
*A call to action and sacrifice*
Abiona urged Muslims to not only celebrate but also internalise the values of Eid-al-Adha—sacrifice, submission, community support, and compassion. He also encouraged Muslims to increase their support for Da’wah, particularly at the grassroots, through the MSSN and other community initiatives.
“Now more than ever, we must invest in nurturing our children’s Islamic identity. Supporting grassroots Da’wah is the most effective way to secure the future of our children and the preservation of Islam in our communities,” he concluded.
“Eid Mubarak. May Allah accept our worship and sacrifices. Taqabbalallahu minna wa minkum.”
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