The Pindiga Emirate Council in Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State, on Tuesday rejected planned mosque demolition and reconstruction, urging the facilitator, Senator Muhammad Goje, to use the funds for youth empowerment initiatives.
Goje is a former governor of Gombe State, and current senator representing Gombe Central senatorial district.
According to the Council, both mosques in Pindiga and Tumu communities are in good condition and standard, adding that the priority should be on investing in the future of Akko youths and other pressing needs that require attention in the areas.
This was contained in a press statement obtained by our correspondent which was signed by the Secretary Mohammed Audi.
The Council said it believes that the funds would be better spent on programmes that would create sustainable opportunities for the young people in the communities.
He explained that the decision was reached at an emergency meeting of the Council and all its relevant stakeholders over the prevailing rumour of the motion to demolish the two Central Mosques in Pindiga and Tumu by Senator Muhammad Danjuma Goje to build new ones.
“During the meeting, it was unanimously agreed that the Mosques are all in good condition and up-to-standard, and therefore should be left as they are. Instead, anybody who is eager to benefit the community should look for other important projects that will equally contribute to the development of our people,” the statement partly read.
The statement further called on Goje and other donors to consider investing in the future of the emirate, adding “The youths are the backbone of any community, and investments in their education and employment will ensure a better future for everyone.”
The statement added, “Therefore, all the citizens of Pindiga Emirate be well informed and acquainted with the decision reached with regard to this rumor and conduct themselves in orderly manners. They should also avoid engaging in any action that will cause or tend to cause confusion among our people. With all due respect and honor, we are notifying all the appropriate authorities of our stand. Our people rejected the demand by Senator Goje to demolish the Central Mosques Pindiga and Tumu for now.”
As at the time of filing this report Goje, was yet to respond to text and call placed by this medium.
