Funmi Olaitan, Ibadan

Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State, has congratulated the Muslim community in the country on the successful completion of the month-long Ramadan fasting.

The governor, in a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser, Communication and Strategy, Mr. Bolaji Tunji, prayed Allah accepts their supplications, even beyond the holy month.

While calling for spiritual rebirth among Islamic faithful, he enjoined them to imbibe the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammed on the essence of Ramadan fasting.

Ajimobi also admonished the faithful to use Eid-el-Fitri celebrations to pray for the unity and peaceful co-existence of the country’s ethnic groups, and shun divisive tendencies capable of drawing back the country’s wheel of progress.

He said, “Since Ramadan fasting symbolises spiritual rejuvenation, it is expected that our Muslim brothers and sisters will continue to adhere to the teachings of Prophet Muhammed. Part of this is to be our brother’s keepers and ensure service to humanity.

“Besides, it is important for us to move closer to Allah, even after Eid-el-Fitri celebrations and eschew things that are against His will and commandment. We should not be tempted to go back to sinful habits.”

“Leaders in all the tiers of government also deserve to be assisted with prayers so that they can lead us aright and move the country forward in all ramifications.”

He then lauded the spirit of oneness and peaceful co-existence among all religious adherents in the state, urging them to sustain the tempo so that his administration would have ample time to concentrate on its efforts at repositioning the state.