Press statement: UNILAG Muslim community urges constant remembrance of deeper lessons of Ramadan
The University of Lagos Muslim Community hereby rejoices with fellow Muslims and other Nigerians on the successful conclusion of 1442 AH Ramadan.
Speaking through its Chairman and a former National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Lai Olurode, in a statement, commends all Muslims for abstaining from foods and drinks, display of tolerance and withdrawing from idle talks during the period.
As important as these are, it urges for the sustenance of the practical implications of fasting such as tolerance, love of our country and prayer for our leaders and mind of forgiveness. The essence of fasting is behavioural modifications in the month of Ramadan but, particularly beyond it and until the next Ramadan.
No doubt, Nigeria confronts numerous challenges, rickety security architecture being the most intimidating and protracted. Muslims are hereby enjoined not to be Ramadan Muslims, in the post Ramadan phase, UMC calls for even more prayer for Nigeria, enhanced spirit of forgiveness and listening ears from our leaders.
The Chairman urges Nigerians to realise that the world itself is in great turmoil and peaceful co-existence is constantly under threat. Yet, no country can be permanently at war with itself and still know peace and development Nigeria’s disintegration will spell doom for even the world at large and would further compound current dismal poverty index in Nigeria and global agonies.
UNILAG Muslim Community hereby once again advises local, state and national leaders to listen to and respect grassroots opinions, tinker with governance structure as being agitated for and facilitate speedy reforms for the sake of Nigeria’s corporate existence.
Leaders at all level must demonstrate more compassion and visible sense of empathy.
No doubt, Nigeria is potentially a great country, once it can get its act together. Nigerians should also move away from permanent skepticism about their own goodness and that of Nigeria and develop a more positive mindset that is development supportive. Muslims should behave as if everyday is for fasting. We say to all, happy Eid-El-Fitri.