The Olowa and Paramount Ruler of Igbara-Oke kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Francis Adefarakanmi Agbede, has felicitated the Muslim community in Ondo State and in Nigeria as they begin the holy month of Ramadan. The monarch said Ramadan period teaches us to practice virtue, self-discipline, self-control, sacrifice, tolerance, justice and empathy for the less privileged in the society.
He said it is the time for the Muslims to observe dawn to dusk fast to cleanse the soul and come closer to (God) Allah, the Most Beneficent, and the Most Merciful. The monarch also hoped that this year Ramadan would promote continuous brotherhood, compassion and love for fellow citizens and strengthen the bond of unity and amity among different communities living in the state.
According to him, “the advent of the holy month of Ramadan is a renewed occasion to emphasize the fraternity and unity ties between the Muslim community and the need to remain attached to the fundamental values of religion tolerance.”
The monarch also urged them to use this season to intercede in prayer for Nigeria and her citizenry. He said one of the things our country needs now is prayer for us to overcome challenges.
He enjoined them to use this period also to pray for the continued success of our dear governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, and therefore called on everyone to support his administration in the delivery of his campaign promises for the benefits of the citizens.
Oba Adefarakanmi Agbede believed that the month of Ramadan is filled with blessings and it is appropriate to wish the Muslim brothers and sisters well at the beginning of the month. He prayed that this month becomes a harbinger of joy, peace and prosperity for us in Ondo State and Nigeria.