As Muslims in Nigeria and all over the world start the obligatory Ramadan fasting today (Thursday), former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar has called on them to use the fasting period to pray for the unity of the country.
According to a press statement personally signed by the former Vice President, the Ramadan period is about recompense, piety and separation from sin; we must therefore be ready to offer sacrifice of prayer and worship to Almighty Allah who has made Ramadan a blessing for us.
He said the holy month of Ramadan provides every Muslim a unique opportunity to reflect on their past with a view to seeking forgiveness from Allah (SWT).
Atiku admonishes Muslims to manifest the spirit of love, oneness, charity, reflection, obedience and other tenets of Islam during and after the period of Ramadan fasting.
“The 30 days of fasting”, he said, “should be dedicated to moving closer to Almighty Allah.
“We all have a responsibility by praying for the progress and economic recovery of the nation”
“As a Muslim, I believe so much in prayers, especially the ones offered during Ramadan because this is a period of purification, when a Muslim is expected to, more than before, show piety in all areas of life.
“So, any prayer offered at such period is always acceptable as the Almighty Allah is merciful and benevolent.”
While wishing all Nigerian Muslims a fruitful Ramadan, Atiku appealed to them to imbibe honesty, love and peace during the period and beyond.
Atiku Abubakar
Waziri Adamawa
17 May, 2018