Shettima, Jibrin, Makinde, AbdulRahman, others storm Ogbomoso to commission Ibapon Central Mosque built by Sen. Buhari
pannigeriannews
4 min read
Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima; Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibril; Kwara and Oyo governors, AbdulRasaq AbdulRahman and Seyi Makinde, among other top-ranking personalities in the country, have stormed the city of Ogbomoso, Oyo State to inaugurate the magnificent Ibapon Central Mosque built by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation and Aerospace Development, Senator Fatai Buhari, at his Ibapon residence.
Pannigeriannews.com reports that this is the second time the Vice President visited Ogbomoso this year, the first being the official commissioning of Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala Memorial Highway (Iseyin-Fapote-Ogbomoso Road) built by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State.
Speaking at the event in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Shettima, who warned Nigerians against selfishness, called on leaders to exemplify true leadership by prioritizing community service and legacy-building over personal gain.
He urged Nigerians to prioritise spiritual obligations and community service over personal interests in an era where people are becoming more individualistic and giving less premium to God.
The Vice President expressed worry about the shifting societal values in contemporary Nigeria.
Shettima said, “Today, the world is unfortunately marked by a mindset that values self-interest over selflessness, and many see giving back or even engaging in spiritual obligations as burdens or distractions.”
According to him, the Mosque, a multi-million naira project built by Senator Buhari representing Oyo North Senatorial District, is a “gift for generations” that stands in stark contrast to prevailing materialistic trends.
“Every second of our lives is a reminder of our impermanence, and the brevity of life underscores the urgency of filling our days with deeds that matter in the hereafter,” the VP added.
Shettima lauded the project, describing it as an example of Sadaqah Jariyah (continuous charity), noting that such initiatives represent the kind of legacy-building that society desperately needs.
“This is a legacy, a bridge between this world and the next, grounded in kindness and devotion,” he stated.
In his message to political leaders and wealthy Nigerians, Shettima questioned the lasting impact of material accumulation: “We must ask ourselves—what remains when this race ends? In the end, all that endures are the records of our selfless deeds, our adherence to our faith, and our acts of charity.”
The new religious edifice is expected to serve as a major spiritual centre for Muslims in Ogbomoso and surrounding communities, with the Vice President expressing hope that it will “be a source of spiritual strength and inspiration for this community and beyond.”
Shetimma also eulogised Oba Olaoye, saying that the monarch exemplifies tolerance and acceptability.
“I want to sincerely thank Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, for gracing this occasion. He is of Christian faith. He was here about three hours waiting for us to commission this project,” Shettima stated.
Speaking, Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, also lauded Senator Buhari, saying the Mosque project was not just a service to the Muslim Ummah but to humanity at large.
“My prayer is that God reward you with Al-Jannatul Firdaus. You are an epitome of good character and someone who is always at the forefront of service to this country and humanity at large,” he said.
The Oyo State Deputy Governor, Barr. Adebayo Lawal, speaking on behalf of the Governor Makinde, said the immediate family of Senator Buhari would be proud to have someone who makes them very proud all the time.
“On behalf of the Governor of Oyo State, we appreciate the Vice President for coming to our state,” he said.
He said the Mosque project is not just a physical building but a spiritual exercise in which the reward extends beyond one’s earthly life.
“It is also a means of spiritual purification and unity, fostering the unity of Nigeria because whenever we worship, we call for the unity and peace of Nigeria,” he added.
Responding, Senator Buhari said it was indeed an honour and a dream come true for him to have completed the Mosque project.
He specifically thanked the Vice President, the governors of Oyo and Kwara states, members of the National Assembly, and community members who contributed to the success of the worship centre.
At the event where the global Islamic scholar and preacher, Sheikh Muideen Ajani Bello, delivered a brief sermon, there was also a welcome address by the Aare Musulumi of Ogbomosoland and the turbaning of two Imams for the newly commissioned Mosque.
Others at the event included the Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; members of the National Assembly; the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III; the Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Olabisi; Onigbeti of Igbeti; other traditional rulers; Rector of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Engr. Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed; LAUTECH Vice Chancellor, Professor Rasak Olatunde ROM Kalilu; Deputy Rector (Academics), Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Mr. Azeez Olasunkanmi Ojo and others
