As Muslims across the world celebrate the commencement of the Islamic New Year, Hijrah 1448, a prominent Islamic cleric and Balogun Oniwasi of Ekiti State, Sheikh Yayi Akorede, popularly known as “Oko Oso, Oko Aje,” has called on kidnappers, bandits, terrorists and other criminal elements to abandon their evil ways and embrace genuine repentance.
In a goodwill message congratulating Muslims on the new Islamic calendar year, Sheikh Akorede said the significance of Hijrah lies in its lessons of transformation, sacrifice, accountability and spiritual rebirth.
He noted that the occasion commemorates the historic migration of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) from Makkah to Madinah, an event that marked the beginning of the Islamic calendar about 1,448 years ago.
The cleric urged Muslims and Nigerians in general to use the new year as an opportunity for self-reflection and positive change, stressing that individuals would one day account for their deeds before Almighty Allah.
According to him, “The essence of Hijrah is for people to leave behind negative habits and sinful acts and embrace a life of righteousness, justice and obedience to God. Every human being should remember that there is a day of reckoning when all actions will be judged by Allah.”
Sheikh Akorede particularly appealed to those involved in criminal activities across the country to retrace their steps and seek divine forgiveness.
He called on kidnappers to release all persons held in captivity and warned that no one can escape God’s judgment.
“This is the time for kidnappers, bandits, hired killers, terrorists and other perpetrators of violence to repent and turn a new leaf. They should free those in their custody and desist from acts that bring pain and sorrow to innocent families. Allah’s judgment will surely come upon every wrongdoer,” he said.
The respected Islamic leader also challenged public office holders and political leaders at all levels to discharge their responsibilities with sincerity and a sense of accountability, noting that good governance remains critical to national unity, peace and development.
Against the backdrop of the forthcoming governorship election in Ekiti State, Sheikh Akorede urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant stakeholders to ensure a free, fair, credible and peaceful electoral process.
He stressed that the integrity of elections remains essential to democratic growth and public confidence in governance.
He also appealed to all candidates participating in the election to conduct their campaigns and political activities peacefully, reminding them that political power ultimately comes from God.
“Political positions are bestowed by Allah. Therefore, candidates and their supporters should avoid violence, desperation and actions capable of threatening the peace of the state before, during and after the election,” he advised.
The cleric further congratulated Ekiti State pilgrims who recently returned from the 2026 Hajj exercise, describing their successful journey to the Holy Land and safe return as a special blessing from Allah.
He prayed for long life, good health and divine acceptance of their acts of worship.
Sheikh Akorede extended his Hijrah greetings to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world, including the President of the League of Imams and Alfas in the South-West, Edo and Delta States, Sheikh Jamiu Bello-Kewulere.
He prayed for continued peace, prosperity and the privilege of witnessing many more Islamic New Years in good health and faith.
