Muslim Women in Ogun State Unite to Combat Social Vices

Lateefah Sowunmi-Kolapo, the Iya Sunnah of Egbaland and deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ogun State, has made a passionate appeal to Muslim women to put aside their differences and work together to address the growing social problems affecting their communities. She emphasized the crucial role that mothers play in shaping the moral values of their children and urged them to intentionally raise their kids with strong moral foundations that can resist the threats of drug abuse, cybercrime, cultism, and moral decadence. Sowunmi-Kolapo made these remarks while delivering the keynote address at the inaugural summit of the Egba Muslim Women Forum, which was held in Abeokuta on Sunday. The summit, themed 'Mothers, Unity and Community Service: Nurturing Strong Families, Building Vibrant Communities,' was attended by notable figures, including the Ogun State Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Islamic scholars, traditional rulers, women leaders, and representatives of Muslim organizations across Egbaland. According to Sowunmi-Kolapo, the inauguration of the forum marks the beginning of a movement aimed at strengthening families, empowering women, serving communities, and contributing to the development of Egbaland. She commended the Egba Women Titled Chiefs and the organizing committee for creating a platform that would foster collaboration among Muslim women. Sowunmi-Kolapo expressed concern over the erosion of family values, driven by economic hardship and the negative influence of social media, and urged Muslim women to intentionally raise children who fear Allah, uphold integrity, and contribute positively to society. She also urged the newly inaugurated forum to become a rallying point for every Muslim woman in Egbaland, regardless of age, profession, political affiliation, or organizational background. The Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, declared the summit open and described the gathering as a historic milestone, commending the organizers for their vision. She noted that every enduring movement begins with a vision and expressed optimism that the efforts of the organizers would continue to yield positive results. Salako-Oyedele also urged Muslim women to embrace unity despite differences in affiliations, stressing that collective action would achieve greater impact than individual efforts.