Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has called for a collective return to moral values, gender equity, and Islamic teachings as critical tools for societal reformation and the eradication of rising social vices.

Obasa made the call on Wednesday during the 16th Annual Hijrah Lecture held in Lagos, themed “The Muslim Woman and Societal Reformation: Balancing Between Islamic Culture and Western Civilization.”

Addressing attendees, the Speaker emphasized the enduring relevance of Islamic teachings in addressing modern challenges, stating that the Hijrah should not only be seen as a historical journey but as a moral and civic call to duty.

“The Hijrah is not just a journey from Mecca to Medina; it is a call to fulfill our social, civic, and political responsibilities. Islam holds women in high esteem. As the Prophet (SAW) said, ‘Paradise lies beneath the feet of mothers,’” Obasa declared.

He decried the growing erosion of moral values in society, condemning issues such as drug abuse and prostitution. While addressing the root causes, he warned against blaming women alone, urging a shared societal responsibility among men, families, and educational institutions.

Speaking on the Lagos State Assembly’s legislative strides, Obasa cited key laws aimed at protecting women and children. These include the domestication of the Child Rights Act, anti-rape legislation, and the establishment of sexual violence response desks across all local government areas.

“Lagos was the first state to domesticate the Child Rights Act to ensure the protection of children, especially the girl child,” he noted. “We’ve also criminalized rape and other gender-based violence.”

Obasa further advocated for enhanced access to education and empowerment for women, emphasizing their role in reshaping communities.

Supporting this stance, Hon. Nureni Akinsanya, Chairman of the Organizing Committee and member representing Mushin Constituency 1, stressed the need to ease the dual burden on Muslim women who strive to balance religious obligations with societal expectations. He proposed workplace reforms, including proximity postings for female civil servants and improved maternity benefits.

“Our goal is to empower Muslim women to become agents of positive change in their communities, leveraging their unique strengths to promote a more just and compassionate society,” Akinsanya said, while commending Obasa for championing the annual lecture.

In her lecture, Prof. (Mrs) Jameelah Yaqub of Lagos State University expressed concern over increasing corruption and drug addiction among youths. She underscored the pivotal role of women in moral upbringing and national development.

“When you train a woman, you train a nation,” she stated, calling for more inclusive workplace policies that support women’s wellbeing.

A second lecturer, Shaykh Prof. Abdurrazzaq Abdulmajid Alaro, challenged Muslims to prioritize values and legacy over material pursuits.

He also criticized any policies or actions undermining Muslim women’s rights, particularly citing concerns over alleged directives by JAMB asking candidates to remove their hijabs during the 2025 registration process, despite a Supreme Court ruling in favor of hijab usage.

“The system we inherited is biased against a particular religion,” Alaro said, urging lawmakers to serve as true voices of the people and defend the rights and values of their constituents.

The event concluded with a renewed call for unity, ethical leadership, and policy reforms that align with both Islamic and universal human values.