Cleric Calls For Stronger Parental Responsibility, Moral Discipline At Naming Ceremony In Osun

By Michael Ojo, Osogbo

A Muslim cleric, Imam Lateef Dada, has urged Nigerian parents to uphold stronger moral and spiritual responsibility as the nation continues to battle rising social vices and weakening family values.

He made the call on Saturday , December 6, during the naming ceremony of the newborn child of Mr. Agboola Lekan in Owode-Ede, Osun State.

Delivering his sermon at the event, the cleric stressed that the stability of any nation begins with the home, noting that responsible parenting is essential to building disciplined and morally upright citizens.

“You are no longer like other single men,” he told the father.

“Marriage and parenthood demand discipline, patience and constant remembrance of your family. When a man has a wife and child, he must lead them in the way of Allah and stay away from behaviours that weaken the home.”

He similarly urged mothers across the country to take their role seriously, saying their influence shapes the moral direction of future generations.

“If you were not prayerful before, now is the time,” he said, urging the new parent.

“A mother must be steadfast and spiritually conscious. Even when challenges come, a responsible woman knows how to guide her home back to God. Your responsibility has increased, pray for this child and build a home that honours Allah.”

He also advised unmarried young women to embrace responsibility and avoid lifestyles that could expose them to social risks, saying marriage, when done at the right time, remains a stabilising institution.

Speaking after the event, the father of the newborn, Mr. Agboola Lekan, expressed gratitude to God and praised the guidance offered during the ceremony.

“This child is a blessing, and we are committed to raising him with the right values,” he said. “We appreciate everyone who supported us today.”

While speaking, Chief Ayobami Agboola, the Asiwaju of Kajola Land and Publisher of City Mirror News and CEO City Mirror TV, who is the uncle to the father of the newborn described the day as significant not just for the family but for the wider community.

“In a society where values are shifting, ceremonies like this remind us of the importance of family, discipline and prayer,” he said. “We pray for divine wisdom and protection over this child.”

The event drew relatives, community leaders and well-wishers, who joined in prayers for the newborn, with speakers emphasising the need for families nationwide to raise children who can contribute positively to the country’s future.