The Muslim Congress (TMC) has inaugurated International Muslim Cemetery (IMC) at Iberekodo Village in Sagamu Local Government Area of Ogun State.
Amir of TMC, Alhaji Abdulwasi’ Bangbala, said the event does not only represent a celebration of a physical space, but also a demonstration of TMC’s commitment to the society as a whole, and dedication to preserving human dignity beyond mortality.
Bangbala said: “The establishment of this cemetery is a reflection of these values, providing a sacred space for the community to honour our departed. This cemetery stands as a beacon of hope and a reminder of our responsibilities to one another. It is a place where families can find solace and where the faithful reflect and pay solemn respect to the departed as it is consistent with our spiritual values.”
Bangbala noted that the story of IMC began at the Ikorodu local chapter of The Muslim Congress, and thereafter championed under the national leadership of the immediate past Amir, Dr. Lukman AbdurRaheem.
He said: “The road to realization was fraught with many challenges, beginning with fundraising struggles which saw our dedicated members contributing their resources, alongside the generous support of well-meaning individuals who understood the significance of our mission. Yet, as we acquired the land that would become the home of the IMC, we faced unexpected hurdles.
“The poor state of the access road became a formidable obstacle, causing significant delays and financial strain. Each attempt to transport materials was met with frustration, yet determination fuelled our perseverance. With a deep sense of purpose and collective effort, we navigated these trials, and today, we stand proudly on 11 acres of land—a proof of our resilience and commitment.
“The IMC has finally come to fruition, a milestone which marks the realisation of our vision. We are proud to introduce the International Muslim Cemetery, a name chosen with great intention, as it signifies our aspiration to uphold universal standards of excellence in the services we provide.”
The National Amir explained that the aspiration of TMC is to replicate the project in other parts of the country for Muslim communities to have access to dignified burial grounds.
A prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Muhammad Jamiu Tirmidhi, described investment in the establishment of Maqbara (Muslim cemetery) as an act of worship, a flowing charity whose reward is perpetual.
“For every faithful who invests in the Maqbara will be an unfailing reward because it is a transitive act of ibadah (sadaqatul jaariyah),” he said.
Tirmidhi, an Islamic Inheritance jurisprudence expert, allayed the fears of residents of the community where the cemetery is sited, noting that unfounded tales and superstitious beliefs often ascribed to cemeteries hold no water.
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“The Muslim Cemetery is an oasis and a blessed place that serves as the final abode on earth for the righteous Muslims. It is as well as visitation and recreation center for the living righteous. Thus, I want to allay the fears in residents concerning associated fretful and diabolical tales that surround living around the cemetery which make some people reject siting maqaabir (cemeteries) in their area. It is all ruse and fantasy. Once again, the Muslim Cemetery is summarily a place described as a sea never dry of Allah’s blessings. It is even a boost to the economy of the community, as the living righteous keep patronizing throughout the year. It draws traffic to the community, which is needed for economic growth,” Sheikh Tirmidhi said.
He underlined the significance of being buried in a Muslim cemetery, saying the dead would enjoy prayers offered from time to time when the living visits.
He urged Muslims to always be conscious of death, noting the wisest among humans are those who remember and prepare adequately for death – the end for every mortal.
District Head of Dambam in Bauchi State, Alhaji Bappah Idris Musa, said he was happy to see TMC as a serious organisation giving back to the community and mankind as a whole.
Alhaji Musa said cemeteries are for the general wellbeing of the public, calling on government to support organisations investing in such project.
“Well, we will always call on the government to intervene since the cemetery is a public facility. Cemeteries are for the general wellbeing of the public. So, government should come in. And now that the local government is getting autonomy, more funds will come in and they should be able to support,” he said.
