Oyebanji says Lent, Ramadan at same period call for unity and love

As Muslims and Christians worldwide commence the Ramadan and Lenten season on Wednesday, the Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has stressed the need for adherents of the two religions to use the period to seek the face of God on behalf of the state and Nigeria in general.

Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, enjoined every true believer to use the period for sober reflection, intercession and to show kindness to their neigbours and others in need.

The governor also urged the people of the state, irrespective of their political and religious affiliations, to continue to live together in unity and harmony, which, he said, is needed at this particular period in order to stimulate the overall development of the state.

Oyebanji noted the uniqueness of this year’s Ramadan month and Lenten season starting the same day. This, he said, should not be seen as a sheer coincidence, but a uniqueness designed by God to teach us a lesson in unity, love, and the supremacy of God.

He urged both Muslims and Christians to utilize the period to fast and pray with all sincerity for the greatness of Nigeria and for peace to reign in all troubled spots in the country and at the global stage.

Specifically, the Governor urged Muslims and Christians in Ekiti to pray for peace to reign in the state, especially as electioneering for the June 20 governorship election has commenced.

He added, “We wish all our brothers and sisters in the Christian and Islamic faith worldwide and in Ekiti in particular a successful completion of the Lenten and Ramadan season. We covet your continued prayer support for the administration and our dear State, more especially this fasting season. May God accept our supplication and grant our heart desires for our families, our dear state and country.”