The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, has called on adherents of Islam and Christianity to use the ongoing fasting periods of Ramadan and Lent to pray fervently for the peace, unity and progress of Nigeria.
The monarch made the appeal in a statement issued on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Solomon Ayoade, to mark the commencement of both the Ramadan and Lenten seasons.
Oba Ladoja reminded the faithful of the spiritual significance of the two sacred periods, noting that both Ramadan and Lent are rooted in sober reflection, forgiveness, kindness, discipline, peaceful coexistence and spiritual renewal.
He stressed that the rare convergence of the two fasting periods should not be seen as a coincidence but as a divine call for deeper unity among Nigerians, irrespective of religious differences.
“The convergence of Ramadan and Lenten periods is not a mere coincidence but a divine arrangement to show the whole world the need for unity, togetherness, love, religious tolerance, and mutual understanding among the religious faithful,” the monarch stated.
The Olubadan urged Nigerians to take advantage of the solemn season to seek God’s intervention in the nation’s affairs, especially at a time when the country is grappling with social and economic challenges.
He further encouraged religious leaders to preach messages that promote harmony and national cohesion, adding that sustained prayers and righteous living remain vital to achieving lasting peace and development in the country.
Oba Ladoja also appealed to citizens to demonstrate compassion towards the less privileged during the fasting period, noting that acts of charity and selflessness would strengthen bonds across communities and foster national stability.
The revered traditional ruler reaffirmed his commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence in Ibadanland and beyond, urging all Nigerians to remain hopeful and united in the collective pursuit of a better nation.
