The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat has encouraged Muslims to continue practicing compassion and empathy, ensuring that the spirit of Ramadan extended beyond the fasting period.
Hamzat gave the advice after observing the Eid-el-fitr prayer on Sunday at the Dodan Barracks praying ground Obalende, Lagos on Sunday, just as the deputy governor emphasised the importance of compassion and empathy as virtues the people must continue practicing.
He explained that the essence of fasting, as stated in the Holy Qur’an, was for piety, worship, and belief in God’s statements and books, also highlighted that the Qur’an emphasised compassion and empathy toward fellow human beings.
9News Nigeria reports that some of his words are; “For example, If you are cooking food and your neighbor can smell it, make sure that the neighbor will not go hungry.
“These are values of Ramadan, which emphasises the need for kindness, understanding, and unity among Nigerians,” he said .
In his sermon, the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos state, Sheik Suleiman Abou-Nolla urged Muslims to carry forward the lessons of the holy month.
He encouraged them to cultivate togetherness, seeking to become better Muslims, citizens, and human beings, just as the cleric emphasised the importance of unity, discipline, and patience.
“Do not be divided amongst yourselves. Do not separate yourselves. Do not disintegrate yourselves,” the Imam cautioned.
According to him, it is important to know that we speak about togetherness, unity, and cultural values which are necessary for national development.
He noted that Ramadan came from the power of discipline, which was rooted in faith in God.
Abou-Nolla encouraged Muslims to continue to guide their thoughts, uphold honesty, and seek strength in their relationship with Allah through constant worship.
“Ramadan also teaches us patience, remaining steadfast despite hunger, thirst, fatigue, and trials all the time. “Life itself is full of challenges, and patience is a quality of life of man,” he said.
He reminded Muslims that Eid is not only a day of joy, gratitude, and togetherness but also a reminder of the lessons of Ramadan, as he thereafter prayed to Allah to accept their fast, bless them, and continue to guide them.
He also prayed for the peace of the nation as well as Lagos state, and also for economic prosperity.
9News Nigeria reports that some of the dignitaries at the Eid-el-fitr praying ground are: the former minister of works and housing, Babatunde Fashola , and Sen. Musiliu Obanikoro, former minister of defence, state.
Others included, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr Olabode Agoro, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, represented by the white caps chiefs among others.
9News Nigeria also reports that the Eid-el-fitr celebration marks the end of Ramadan, a spiritual rebirth of Muslims as commanded by Allah in fulfillment of the fourth pillar of Islam.
