Amidu Arije
Worried by the frequent building collapses in the country, a Muslim group, the Conference of Islamic Organsiation (CIO), has urged the government to ensure stricter adherence to rule and regulations guiding building constructions in the country.
The group spoke against the backdrop of the Itafaji three-storey building collapsed where over 20 persons were reportedly dead including school children, the Ibadan building collapse where about five persons were said to have gone with the building and the Monday, March 25 building collapsed on Kakawa Street, Lagos Island, though no life was lost in the collapsed building property worth millions lost.
Speaking on behalf of the group, in Lagos, Sheikh Abdur Rahman Adangba, said the government was duty bound to ensure that house owners and builders are made to adhere strictly to the provisions of the law on building.
“We call on the government at all levels to be strict with the compliance of builders with necessary laws. We are deeply pained and pray that such would not occur again.
“As patriotic citizens, we must work together for our safety. The gross disobedience to government laws and order ends up affecting us.
“However, the government must take full responsibilities for her failure. The government must provide essential infrastructures to enhance the decongestion of over-populated areas,” he said.
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Speaking on the New Zealand attack on Christchurch Mosque, Adangba said it was a case of terrorist attack and said the CIO condemned attack on Muslims.
He continued, “We state categorically that this is an extreme terrorist attack taken too far. Islam is a religion of peace. We frown seriously on why the lives of the peaceful Muslims are rendered so cheaply.
“It is not as if they have committed any offence except that they believe in Allah and practice their religion.
“We condemn this inhuman and animalistic action and an extreme hatred to Muslims and Islam. This is an extreme hatred for Muslims and Islam,” he said.
The group lauded the spontaneous reaction and condemnation of the terrorist attack by the New Zealand government, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern saying it is a good example of a responsive and responsible government as it called on the Nigerian government to take seriously security issues in the country and provide security in worship places in the country.
“The New Zealand government, Prime Minister Ardern sensitivity and firm stand against the incident is highly appreciated. This is an example of ultimate tolerance and cohabiting instance that should be shown by all World leaders.
“We equally salute the courage of President Muhammadu Buhari for being among the early world leaders to condemn the obnoxious act.
“Nigeria should emulate the provision of security at places of worship as currently seen in New Zealand Mosque attack.
“We urge the Nigerian Army to intensify efforts in combating terrorism in the country. The action of the Boko Haram sect is totally against Islam,” he said.
