Coronavirus Pandemic
Gov. Adegboyega Oyetola of Osun has expressed the hope that Nigeria and the world would come out of the COVID-19 pandemic stronger and better given the huge blessings that come with the Ramadan.
The governor, in a statement issued on Friday in Osogbo by his Chief Press Secretary, Ismail Omipidan, said that the observance of fasting amidst the battle against COVID-19 was not a mere coincidence.
He, therefore, called on Muslims in the country to hold fast to their faith in Allah in both times of prosperity and hardship.
Oyetola said this was necessary to validate the “sincerity of our faith.’’
The governor also noted that the COVID-19 pandemic ravaging the world was a challenge to humanity and their faith in Allah.
Quoting from Q29: 2 where Allah says, “Do people think they will be left alone after saying ‘we believe’ without being put to test,’’ Oyetola urged Muslims to seek the maximum benefits of the Ramadan.
He said that they should do this by engaging in more acts of worship that would draw them closer to Allah, adding that this was the true essence of the holy month.
“Allah allows challenges to make us better and stronger Muslims.
“Once we overcome this challenge of COVID-19 successfully, we will never remain the same, as we will be better prepared for further challenges.
“We will have stronger belief in Allah and be more hopeful of success. Ramadan is a period for spiritual rejuvenation.
“We must, therefore, take advantage of this month to renew our commitment to the service of God and humanity by upholding the teachings and virtues of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
“We must engage in additional acts of worship that will draw us closer to God. I pray Allah accepts all our acts of worship in this glorious month and reward us all abundantly.
“Certainly, with measures taken so far and with our acts of worship in this holy month, we will come out of COVID-19 war stronger and better,’’ he added.
The governor said that Ramadan “is a month of reflection, forgiveness and generosity.’’
He urged the privileged and well meaning members of the society to remember and extend hands of support to the less privileged.
The governor added that the current situation in the country made it more imperative for people to reach out and show love to the vulnerable and the poor.
Oyetola further noted that the lockdown imposed to check the spread of COVID-19 was still in force and warned against violation of the order, stressing that violators would not be spared by the state government.
“To this end, some regular activities during Ramadan such as congregational prayers including Taraweeh, Tafseer, public lectures, and other religious gatherings are suspended during this period.
“This is necessary to flatten the curve and prevent community transmission of the coronavirus.
“We, therefore, urge Muslim leaders and followers and other residents of our state to continue to adhere strictly to the sit-at-home order, maintain social distancing and observe other precautionary measures to halt further spread of the virus,” Oyetola said.
The governor also appealed to Nigerians and Muslims in particular to intensify prayers during the Ramadan for God’s intervention in the fight against COVID-19. (NAN)
– Apr. 24, 2020 @ 12:15 GMT |
Tags: better – Oyetola Ramadan: Nigeria will come out of COVID-19 stronger
