Islamic leaders seek urgent intervention to restore Lagos’ 134-year old historic mosque after fire damage

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Muslim leaders in Lagos have appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene urgently in the restoration of the historic Shitta-Bey Mosque, following a devastating fire that damaged the 134-year-old Islamic landmark on Lagos Island.

The fire, which gutted the Great Nigeria Insurance Building and nearby structures on Nnamdi Azikiwe Street, also left the Shitta-Bey Mosque severely affected, forcing Muslim worshippers and traders in the area to suspend religious and commercial activities.

The appeal was jointly made by prominent Islamic bodies, including the Jamu’atul Muslimeen Council, the Executive Council of the Lagos Central Mosque, and the Bashorun-in-Council of Olowogbowo Division. They described the damage to the mosque as a painful loss to the Muslim Ummah, Lagos State, and Nigeria’s Islamic heritage.

In a formal letter addressed to the governor and copied to the deputy governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the Muslim leaders urged the state government to take full responsibility for rebuilding the mosque. They stressed that the Shitta-Bey Mosque is not just a place of worship but a powerful symbol of Islamic faith, unity, and charity in Lagos.

Constructed in 1891, the Shitta-Bey Mosque also known as Moshalashi Shitta-Beyis widely regarded as Nigeria’s first modern mosque to gain international recognition. Its unique Brazilian-Portuguese architectural design reflects the elegance of Islamic heritage during the late nineteenth century.

The mosque was built entirely through the generosity of Chief Muhammad Shitta-Bey, a renowned Muslim philanthropist and merchant, formerly known as William Shitta. He later became the first Seriki Musulumi of Lagos and played a major role in strengthening Islamic institutions in the city.

Designated a National Monument, the mosque has for decades served as a central Ratibi mosque for thousands of Muslims in Lagos Island’s commercial district. Islamic leaders have therefore called on the state to act swiftly to preserve the sacred site, ensuring it continues to serve future generations and safeguard the rich Islamic history of Lagos.

Source: Legit