Customs Pledge To Replace Unapproved Demolished Mosque

…Warn Against Misleading, Hate Religious Reports

BY FUNMI ALUKO

Against the backdrop of a misleading, unwarranted and religious hate induced video released in the internet by a religious freak, the Ogun 11 Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has faulted the correctness of the video that has gone  viral, noting that the intent is to incite undue religious sentiments; saying that the purvey of the action engaged in malicious video content with half truth, intended to cause disaffection.

Clarifying the situation, the area customs command said contrary to the twisted narrative about the demolition of a mosque within the premises of the area command, the demolition was carried out since the building of the mosque was done without approval.

Notwithstanding, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller James Ojo has promised to build another mosque that will be safe for use.

A by the Command Public Relations Officer, Hammed Bukoye Oloyede  quoted Comptroller Ojo as appealing to stakeholders within the command facilities to eschew rumour and acts that are prejudicial to peace and harmonious coexistence.

The release  also faulted the allegation that the OC Building was responsible for the demolition of the mosque, noting that the OC Building has no personal interests in the said mosque but at all time, simply implementing the Command’s directive, projects and programmes.

The release reads: “The attention of the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun 1 Area Command, has been drawn to a recent viral video alleging that the Officer in Charge of Building directed the demolition of an ongoing mosque construction at the Nigeria Customs Secondary School, Idiroko.

“ Following a thorough investigation, it has been established that the mosque construction was initiated without approval. This contradicts the master plan for the school and junior barracks premises.

“It is important to note that there are ample facilities for religious activities within the Command’s jurisdiction, including mosques and a chapel in the border area, as well as in the CAC’s residence, senior and junior officers’ barracks.

“Notably, the mosque within the junior barracks was recently renovated and expanded under the same Officer in Charge of Building.”

The statement continues: “To foster mutual respect and address concerns, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller James Ojo, has personally intervened in this matter. He has committed to laying the foundation for a new Mosque at a designated site within the premises and ensuring necessary support and timely completion of the mosque project in line with the Command’s protocols.

“We call on all esteemed stakeholders to exercise patience and understanding while respecting the sensitivity of religious matters. The CAC further cautioned the school administration to uphold harmony and good relations within and around the barracks community.”