The Kogi State Chapter of the Council of Ulama’u has called on President Bola Tinubu-led federal government to address the agonizing issue of inflation in the country to reduce suffering among the masses.
Speaking at the celebration of the Hijrah 1445 A.H. held at the Muhammadu Buhari Square in Lokoja on Saturday, the Chairman, Kogi State Council of Ulama’u, Sheikh Salma Adam, said the inflation situation has continued to harm the socioeconomic welfare and development of the populace.
“The current increase in the inflation index has led many families into untold hardship as they cannot meet their obligations.
“Even with the recent increase in the pump price of fuel from N515 to N617 per litre, the economic propensity of Nigerians to have money to buy this product is low, and this is serious for our economic development as a nation.
“Our major request from the state and federal governments is to address these prevalent situations like the insecurity logjam which is facing us frequently. We also call on the governments to address the problem of inflation and food shortage.”
Sheikh Adam who said the primary essence of the gathering is to remind Muslims that Hijrah is more than a mere movement from Makkah to Medinah, stressed that it should be seen as a continuous positive movement in all aspects, be it personal or public life.
He, however, warned the returning pilgrims from the Holy Land of Saudi Arabia to desist from all anti-Islamic reception and activities that are capable of invalidating the journey to the Holy Land.
Also in his Hijrah message at the event, the Chief Imam of Kabba, Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Ejibunu, who cheered the occasion implored the government to make governance more comfortable for the masses by providing succour.
Sheikh Ejibunu also urged Muslims to continue to live in peace to move the nation forward.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello who was represented by the Commissioner for Finance, Asiwaju Ashiru Mukadam, advised the Muslim Ummah to sustain their prayers for a peaceful and prosperous society.
The governor extended his heartfelt congratulations and warm wishes to the Muslim Ummah worldwide on the occasion of the new Islamic Year (Muharram 1, 1445 AH).
He stated that “the new Islamic calendar symbolizes a time of reflection, renewal, and spiritual rejuvenation. It serves as a reminder of the values of unity, faith, and perseverance that continue to guide and inspire Muslims across the globe.
He urged them to continue praying for peace, tranquillity, and economic development, both within Kogi State and throughout the country as a whole.