A stalwart of the All Progressives Congress Engr. Dr. Ayo Omotosho has urged Muslims and Christians in Ekiti State to use the commencement of the Ramadan fast and the Lenten season to deepen their faith, promote unity and offer sustained prayers for the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
Omotosho made the call on Tuesday in a statement released in Ado Ekiti to mark the beginning of the two sacred observances, which coincidentally started on the same day this year, describing the development as spiritually significant and called on residents to embrace the period with sincerity and reflection.
Congratulating Muslim faithful on the commencement of Ramadan, he said the holy month represents a time of fasting, prayer, charity and renewed devotion to God. According to him, the discipline embedded in Ramadan teaches patience, humility and compassion for the less privileged in society.
He equally extended warm greetings to Christians as they begin the Lenten season, noting that the forty day period is devoted to repentance, sacrifice and spiritual renewal. He stated that Lent provides an opportunity for believers to reflect on their lives and strengthen their commitment to godly virtues.
“This rare convergence of Ramadan and Lent reminds us that regardless of our religious differences, we share common values of self discipline, love, peace and service to humanity. It is a season that calls for sober reflection and a renewed sense of responsibility to God and to one another,” Omotosho said.
He stressed that beyond personal devotion, the period should inspire collective commitment to the progress and stability of Ekiti State. “As we fast and pray, we must also remember our state in our supplications. We need divine guidance, wisdom and strength for our leaders as they work to advance development and good governance,” he added.
Omotosho specifically called for continued support and prayers for the Governor Oyebanji led administration, describing it as a government committed to inclusive growth and sustainable development. He urged citizens to back ongoing efforts aimed at improving infrastructure, education, healthcare and economic opportunities.
“Our prayers at this time should not only be for personal breakthroughs but for the success of our government and the peace of our state. When leadership succeeds, the people benefit. We must therefore unite in supporting the vision of the present administration,” he stated.
He further encouraged residents to use the season to promote harmony and peaceful coexistence across communities. According to him, faith must not be confined to places of worship but reflected in daily conduct, tolerance and mutual respect.
Omotosho also appealed for increased acts of charity and kindness, particularly toward vulnerable members of society. He noted that fasting and sacrifice become meaningful when accompanied by compassion and practical assistance to those in need.
He commended religious leaders for their role in guiding the faithful and urged them to continue preaching messages that foster unity and discourage division. He emphasized that spiritual leaders have a crucial responsibility in shaping moral values and strengthening social cohesion.
The Oyebanji diehard supporter and mobilizer maintained that the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent presents a unique opportunity for collective introspection and moral renewal. He said the season should inspire citizens to recommit themselves to honesty, hard work and civic responsibility.
“As we journey through these sacred weeks, let us seek forgiveness where we have erred, extend grace to others and renew our dedication to building a peaceful and prosperous Ekiti State,” he said.
Omotosho concluded by wishing Muslims and Christians a spiritually fulfilling Ramadan and Lenten season, expressing hope that the period would usher in greater unity, stability and progress for the state.