NSCIA Calls for Cancellation of Oyedepo’s Airstrip License

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has requested the federal government to withdraw the airstrip license issued to the Living Faith Church, led by Bishop David Oyedepo. The council described the decision to grant the license as a severe anomaly with the potential to compromise Nigeria’s peace and security.

Key Points Raised by the NSCIA

1. Concerns Over National Security
   The NSCIA expressed its disapproval during the 10th Expanded General Purpose Committee (EGPC) meeting held in Abuja. Presided over by the President-General, Sultan of Sokoto Sa’ad Abubakar, the council highlighted the airstrip as a security threat in its communique signed by Secretary-General Salisu Shehu.
2. Background on the Airstrip License
   In October, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, approved the Living Faith Church’s request to construct a private airstrip. The federal government clarified that the facility would remain under the supervision of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA). Despite this assurance, the decision sparked public debate and opposition.
3. Criticism from Islamic Scholars and Activists
   Prominent Islamic rights advocate Professor Ishaq Akintola, Director of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), also criticized the license issuance. He argued that such facilities, especially under influential religious leaders, could evade proper government oversight due to weak systemic controls. Akintola further alleged that societal reverence for figures like Oyedepo could create an imbalance in authority and accountability.
4. Broader Issues Highlighted by the NSCIA
   Beyond the airstrip issue, the council addressed other concerns, including:
   • Non-recognition of Muslim Marriage Certificates: Authorities in Nigeria and abroad often fail to acknowledge Islamic marriage certificates, compelling Muslim couples to acquire additional documentation, some of which contradict Islamic law.
   • Qur’anic Recitation Competitions: The NSCIA reaffirmed its 1986 resolution, declaring the Centre for Islamic Studies at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, as the sole accredited body for organizing the National Musabaqah (Qur’anic Recitation Competition). It cautioned against any attempts to undermine this authority.
   • Imam Appointments at the National Mosque: The council proposed the addition of five new resident and visiting Imams for the Abuja National Mosque, subject to approval by the Fatwa Committee. This measure aims to enhance the mosque’s capacity to fulfill its religious and social obligations.

Conclusion

The NSCIA emphasized the importance of ensuring national security and promoting equality for all religious groups. It vowed to intensify its efforts to address these challenges while urging the government to review decisions that could create imbalance or compromise peace.

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