By Edith Igbokwe
The Chairman of Oshodi-Isolo Local Government, Hon. Bolaji Muse Ariyoh has implored Muslims to exhibit good virtues during the period and have the fear of Allah in their heart as they commenced this year’s Ramadan fasting following the announcement of the sighting of the new moon by the President of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Saad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto.
In a special Ramadan message signed by his Special Adviser on Islamic Affairs, Hon. Taofeek Olatunji, the chairman emphasised the need for the residents to be more committed to the words of Allah and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), noting that fasting is a spiritual exercise that Allah ordained to humanity for soul purification.
He said: “I implore all Muslim faithful to imbibe fear of Allah in our hearts and undertakings, be kind to one another, show love, empathy, etc during and after Ramadan. The essence of observing the annual ritual of fasting is for spiritual cleansing, increase in our faith and commitment to Allah our creator.
“The month of Ramadan (is the month) in which the Qur’an was sent down as guidance for mankind containing clear signs which lead (to the straight road) and distinguish (the truth from falsehood)” (Q 2:185).
“Oh you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you many learn piety and righteousness” (Q 2:183)
“Fasting in the month of Ramadan is one of the pillars of faith in Islam, Muslims across the world commence thirty or twenty-nine days fasting once the sighting of the moon is announced by the supreme Islamic leader.”
