The Guardian (Nigeria)

Ramadan: ACF, Fayemi, Sheba urge prayers for Nigeria, Ododo preaches love, sacrifice

- From Saxone Akhaine ( Kaduna), Kehinde Olatunji ( Lagos) and Ibrahim Obansa ( Lokoja)

AS Muslims begin the holy month of Ramadan, former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has extended his best wishes and greetings to Nigerian Muslims, encouragin­g them to use the fast as an opportunit­y for self- reflection, prayer and to deepen community spirit.

The former Chairman of Nigerian Governors’ Forum ( NGF) noted that this year’s Ramadan coinciding with the Christian Lent held profound significan­ce and illustrate­d a shared commitment to spiritual devotion and selfdiscip­line by the two faiths. According to him, Ramadan is not merely about abstaining from food and drinks from dawn until sunset, but a time for spiritual growth, self- discipline and empathy.

ALSO, Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) governorsh­ip hopeful in Ondo State, Abayomi Sheba, has admonished the adherents of Islam to imbibe the lifestyle of Prophet Muhammad, by remaining steadfast during the period and committing the nation into the hands of God.

Sheba stated, yesterday, that as devoted followers of Islam, the 30- day exercise offered them the opportunit­y to intercede for the nation in the challenges facing it.

Sheba, who represente­d I r e l e / O k i t i p u p a Constituen­cy of Ondo in the House of Representa­tives between 1999 and 2003, said Nigerians must not be tired of approachin­g God to restore the nation to its former glory.

AREWA Consultati­ve Forum ( ACF) have also called on Muslims to use the Ramadan to pray for the return of security, peace and economic prosperity to Nigeria.

The northern elders urged the Muslim Ummah to engage in prayers for God to touch the hearts of Nigerian leaders to govern with compassion under the prevailing economic hardship, and turn the minds of terrorists and bandits in the country, for the return of peace and tranquilit­y.

Spokesman of the Northern Socio- cultural group, Prof. Tukur Muhammed- Baba, said: “ACF is not unmindful of the economic and security challenges bedevillin­g the nation and its people, especially in the Northern states. However, this is also a time to look forward to a brighter future, as the holy month is a most auspicious one for remaining upbeat, as nothing is impossible for God to grant his servants.”

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