As the 2024 Eid-il-Fitri celebrations resonated throughout the Epe Local Government, kakalistiq.com reports that esteemed figures including HRM Oba Kamorudeen Animashaun, Arolugbade Elepe II, the Oloja of Epe land, and HRM Oba Dr. Shefiu Adewale, Bamgbopa Eshilokun I, the Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom, alongside other iconic leaders, seized the occasion to impart wisdom and guidance to the gathering, emphasizing unity, compassion, and national solidarity in the face of prevailing economic challenges.
In an interview, Oba Kamorudeen Ishola Animashaun, the Oloja of Epe Land, called upon the Muslim Ummah to embrace the enduring teachings of Ramadan, fostering an unwavering spirit of goodwill, obedience, and prayer. “Ramadan has come and gone, but good deeds, steadfastness, obedience, tolerance, and prayers remain with us,” he affirmed, urging fervent supplication for the restoration of peace and unity within Nigeria.
Reflecting upon the significance of harmonious coexistence, HRM Oba Dr. Shefiu Adewale, Bamgbopa Eshilokun I, the Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom, advocated for the entrenchment of peaceful relations between communities, asserting, “We must continue to leverage the teachings of Ramadan to foster compassion and understanding, nurturing an environment conducive to growth and development.”Alhaji Shakirudeen Akanni Seriki (Bamu) echoed sentiments of national solidarity, enjoining citizens to embrace prayer and dedication in the pursuit of unity and progress. “Nation-building is a collective responsibility,” he affirmed, stressing the critical roles of both Muslims and Christians in advancing the nation’s development agenda.
With fervent supplication for peace filling the air, the Grand Chief Imam of Epe Division, Fadhilat Sheikh Abdulrahman Abiola Sadallah, invoked divine blessings upon the land, saying, “May Allah ease all our affairs and instill peace and happiness among our people in Nigeria.”
On his part, High Chief Wale Mogaji, a revered community leader and political luminary, commended the Muslim Ummah for their unwavering commitment to the obligatory Ramadan fasting, even amidst the adversities posed by economic hardships and scorching heat waves. “I salute the resilience of our Muslim brothers and sisters who have steadfastly observed the sacred fast, despite the challenging circumstances we face,” he said.
Urging continued acts of charity and benevolence, he said, “Let us extend our hands of compassion not only during Ramadan but also beyond, ensuring that the less fortunate among us find solace and support in our collective embrace.” With genuine concern for the welfare of all, High Chief Mogaji’s words stirred hearts and inspired a renewed commitment to communal upliftment and solidarity.
Offering scholarly insights, Dr. Morufudeen Adeniyi Shittu, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the Lagos State University of Education, extolled the virtues of Ramadan and its enduring significance. “Ramadan epitomizes a time of reflection and devotion,” he elucidated, stressing the imperative of honesty, dedication, and fervent prayer in advancing the nation’s prosperity and growth.
As the Eid-il-Fitri celebrations drew to a close, the positive echoes of wisdom and guidance imparted by Epe’s esteemed leaders reverberated throughout the community, illuminating a path of unity, compassion, and national solidarity amidst the challenges of the present moment.
