Today, February 11th, 2024, Kakalistiq.com reports that the Ejinrin Kingdom in Epe, Lagos State, witnessed a convergence of solemn prayers and fervent discussions as the community and Lagos creme de la creme came together for the Fidau prayers held in honour of Alhaji Rafiu Shoye Shittu, the esteemed father of Dr. Hakeem Shittu, Chairman of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board.
Amidst the prayers and reflections on the state of the Nigerian nation, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, addressed the gathering, invoking divine blessings and mercies upon Nigeria. Drawing an analogy, he likened the nation’s current predicament to that of a person recovering from a severe injury, emphasizing the painful yet necessary process of healing and rehabilitation.
“Ours is like the story of an accident victim who broke his leg. You know, a doctor will have to fix the broken leg and the victim will be hurting so badly in the process. When it’s fixed, he’ll go through therapy and gradually return to walking if he’s lucky to have been treated clinically. That’s the stage we are at in Nigeria. May God make it easy. We know things are hard. Those who followed the policy then thought it was good. No governor or president desires to fail, and no one wants to fail. We must keep praying for the success of this administration,” he said.
In another twist, discussions turned to the proposed Epe airport, with the Deputy Governor expressing his surprise at the necessity to seek foreign funding for the project. Recounting a conversation two weeks ago with Herbert Wigwe, the deceased CEO of Access Bank Holdings, Dr. Hamzat revealed Mr. Wigwe’s assurance of securing indigenous funding for the airport, underscoring the potential for local solutions to national infrastructural development.
Dr. Hamzat also lamented the concerning trend of materialism among today’s youth, pointing to a societal shift towards wealth acquisition at any cost. Reflecting on his upbringing and the stark differences in societal values, he said, “At 19, I was playing about the street without any knowledge of making money. But now, a 19-year-old can go as far as killing for money rituals.” He, therefore, emphasized the need for fervent prayers to guide both leaders and citizens amidst evolving challenges.
Amidst the political tensions preceding the election, Dr. Hamzat reminded the audience of Nigeria’s diverse heritage and the imperative of unity in the face of adversity. Drawing on the nation’s resilience, he expressed gratitude for the grace that has sustained Nigeria amidst myriad challenges.
As memories of the late Alhaji Rafiu Shittu were shared, especially that of a letter discovered and shared with the Deputy Governor of old times in England, Dr. Hamzat commended the enduring bond between Dr. Hakeem Shittu and his father, highlighting the significance of familial relationships amidst life’s trials.
He extended gratitude to the Ulamas and attendees for their unwavering support in honouring the event, concluding the gathering with prayers for the bereaved family and Nigeria’s continued progress and prosperity.
