The Al-Maqbarah Muslim Forum, Abeokuta, has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting Sunnah-aligned and legally compliant burial practices following the successful conclusion of its 2025 Capacity Building Workshop for Training of Trainers (TOT).
The one-day event, themed “Sunnatic Ethics of Pre and Post Transition for the Deceased”, was held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at The Crescent Muslim Professionals Hall, Leme, Abeokuta.
The workshop brought together Imams, Islamic scholars, community leaders, burial teams, Muslim professionals, and representatives of Islamic organisations from across Ogun State. Discussions centered on correcting cultural deviations in burial rites, strengthening adherence to Islamic teachings, and ensuring compliance with state laws.
Prohibition of Home Burials
In his keynote address, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment in Ogun State, Dr. Oladimeji Oresanya, stressed that home burials in residential compounds remain illegal under Chapter 246 of the Criminal Code and environmental regulations.
“Home burials are not only unlawful but also pose serious health and environmental hazards. All burials must take place in approved cemeteries, including designated Muslim Maqbarahs. Violators risk legal penalties and contribute to urban developmental challenges,” Dr. Oresanya warned.
He urged participants to act as advocates of lawful compliance within their communities.
Revival of Authentic Islamic Burial Rites
Participants underwent intensive training on pre-death responsibilities, ritual washing, shrouding, Solatul Janazah, grave preparation, and post-burial obligations. Practical demonstrations corrected widespread cultural errors and reinforced adherence to the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
Prof. Maroof Adelekan, Director of Lafiya Medical Centre, noted: “This training is not just about rituals; it is about restoring dignity to the deceased and ensuring our practices align with both Islamic ethics and public health standards.”
The Forum mandated all attendees to replicate the training in their respective communities. Progress will be monitored through performance indicators such as documentation of correct procedures, outreach programs, and promotion of cemetery-based interments.
Imam (Arch.) Tajudeen Ademoye, speaking on behalf of the Workshop Planning Committee, said:
“We expect every participant to become an ambassador of lawful and Sunnah-compliant burial practices. This is both a religious duty and a civic responsibility.”
The workshop enjoyed strong institutional backing. Eminent personalities present included His Royal Majesty, Oba Saka Adelola Matemilola, the Olowu of Owu and President of the Ogun State Muslim Council (represented by Alhaji Kamaldeen Akintunde, Secretary General of the Council), Dr. Rabiu Kushimo, and eminent scholar Dr. Khidri Mustapha.
Alhaji Kamaldeen Akintunde remarked: “The Muslim Council fully supports this initiative. It is time our communities embrace cemetery-based burials as the only dignified and lawful option.”
The Forum issued a strong appeal to:
- Muslim families to refrain from home burials and use approved Maqbarahs.
- Imams and Islamic leaders to educate congregations on lawful burial practices.
- Community burial teams to undergo formal training and collaborate with the Forum.
- Governments and stakeholders to support the establishment and maintenance of well-managed Muslim cemeteries.
Founded in 2017 and registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission in 2023, the Al-Maqbarah Muslim Forum continues to champion affordable, properly managed cemeteries aligned with Islamic teachings.
The communiqué concluded with a prayer: “May Allah (SWT) accept our efforts, grant paradise to the departed, and guide our communities toward unity, knowledge, and compliance with His commandments.” The workshop was described as a milestone in unifying the Muslim burial ecosystem in Ogun State, strengthening knowledge, correcting misconceptions, and building a growing network of trained personnel.
