By Adeboye Ado

The Chief Imam of Arigidi Akoko, in Akoko North West Local area of Ondo State, Sheikh Jimoh Balogun, has declared that the celebration of Valentine is not part of Islamic teachings.

He urged Muslims to ensure their children do not engage in immoral activities under the guise of marking the occasion.

During a chat with the cleric after the celebration of Valentine day, he explained that many youths had hidden under the guise of Valentine to commit licentious act, adding that Islam does  not give room for depravity.

He said, “immorality on Valentine  day is not part of Islamic teachings. Many youths use the occasion as an excuse to engage in inappropriate behavior.

“Parents should educate their children on the importance of abstaining from such acts. In fact, some even deceive their parents just to go out on Valentine Day.

Sheikh, however, Balogun cautioned against reckless behaviors such as excessive alcohol consumption, drug abuse, and other vices that could jeopardize the future of young people.

He emphasized the importance of upholding Islamic values and moral discipline.

Similarly, the health officer in charge of Agbaluku Arigidi Basic Health Centre, Mrs. Dupe Olowoyeye, advised young people to avoid unprotected sex, warning that it could lead to unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS.

She also called on parents, especially mothers to closely monitor their adolescent children and provide them with proper sex education to guide them in making responsible decisions.

“Young people should avoid unprotected sex because it can lead to unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS.

“I urge parents to closely monitor their adolescent children and provide them with proper sex education to help them make responsible decisions,” she said.