By Ayomide Otitoju
As Muslims in Nigeria and across the world celebrate Eid-El-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, Islamic leaders have called on the faithful to uphold the values of piety, kindness, and justice instilled during the holy month.
Dr. Afolabi Abiodun Mohamed Tajudeen , Lagos State Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement, and former Chairman of Lagos and Secretary of the Community Central Mosque, described the conclusion of Ramadan as a moment of mixed emotions.
“Some of us wish Ramadan could continue because it has taught us so much—piety, kindness, and faithfulness,” he said. “During the last ten days, we dedicated ourselves to supplications and prayers, seeking closeness to Almighty Allah. As we return to daily life, I urge Muslims to remember the lessons of Ramadan and continue practicing charity, kindness, and faith.”
He emphasized the importance of charity (Sadaqah) and encouraged Muslims to maintain the spirit of giving, having experienced hunger and deprivation during fasting. “If you see someone suffering, help them,” he advised.
Dr. Tajudeen also extended prayers for President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, wishing them wisdom to lead Nigeria and Lagos effectively.
Call for Justice and Good Governance
Chairman of the Lagos Secretarial Community Central Mosque, and Ps Lagos State Ministry of Housing, Engr Abduihafis Toriola, highlighted Ramadan as a period of spiritual renewal and community service.
“Ramadan trains us to be better individuals, closer to Allah, and more compassionate to others, including those of different faiths,” he stated.
He urged Nigerian leaders to govern with justice and fairness, emphasizing that a just government must listen to the needs of the people. “For Nigeria to thrive, leaders must act with integrity and ensure that justice prevails,” he said.
Muslim-Christian Relations and Peaceful Coexistence
Addressing interfaith harmony, Abduihafis noted the parallel fasting periods of Muslims and Christians, as Easter closely follows Ramadan. He emphasized the need for both faiths to foster mutual respect and understanding.
“No religion preaches hostility. We must practice good neighborliness, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence,” he stated.
Dr. Isa Abduimujeeb, Imam, Lagos Secrtariat community mosqun Aiausa, Ikeja urged believers to translate their religious devotion into real-life actions.
“Being religious is not just about fasting—it is about how we conduct ourselves, treat others, and show compassion,” he said.
He also reminded Nigerian leaders of their responsibility, warning against corruption and injustice.
“You may escape accountability on earth, but before Allah, there are no lawyers, no connections, no bribes. You will answer for every injustice,” he declared.
Nigeria’s Path to Peace and Stability
The religious leaders stressed that Nigeria’s social and economic challenges are deeply rooted in injustice and inequality.
“When people are oppressed, society becomes restless. If we want peace, we must practice fairness and kindness,” Dr. Isa sserted.
As Muslims celebrate Eid-El-Fitr, the call remains for continued faith, charity, and moral integrity, ensuring that the spiritual lessons of Ramadan extend beyond the holy month into everyday life.
