By Olalekan Olayiwola
His Imperial Majesty, Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa I), has urged Muslims and Christians to use the ongoing fasting seasons of Ramadan and Lent to pray for the progress and unity of Nigeria.
The appeal was contained in a press statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Solomon Olugbemiga, to mark the simultaneous commencement of the Ramadan and Lenten fasting periods.
The monarch reminded adherents of both faiths that Ramadan and Lent are rooted in sober reflection, forgiveness, kindness, discipline, peaceful coexistence and spiritual renewal.
He described the overlap of the two sacred periods as a divine signal for unity and religious harmony.
“The convergence of Ramadan and Lenten periods is not a mere coincidence but a divine arrangement to show the world the need for unity, love, tolerance and mutual understanding among the faithful,” the royal father said.
Oba Ladoja stressed that fasting goes beyond abstaining from food and drink, urging worshippers to also shun hatred, indecent conduct and harmful speech.
He called on residents of Ibadan, the Yoruba race and Nigerians at large to seize the moment to pray for leaders and for the nation, particularly amid prevailing security and socio-economic challenges.
The first-class monarch expressed appreciation for the support he has received from religious leaders and faithful since his enthronement as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, and urged continued prayers for unity, peace, security and economic revival in Ibadanland and across the country.
Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle
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