The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) convened a special prayer session for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as part of its second annual Ramadan lecture. Held at the party’s secretariat in Acme, the event drew a substantial gathering of Muslim faithful and party leaders, underscoring the significance of the occasion within both religious and political spheres. The lecture served as a platform to offer spiritual support to the newly elected leaders while also addressing broader societal concerns and the challenges facing the nation.
Imam AbdulHakeem Lawal, the guest lecturer, delivered a compelling address titled “Holding forth to our religion in this perilous time.” He emphasized the importance of national unity and support for leadership, urging Nigerians to adopt a patriotic spirit akin to the American tradition of invoking “God Bless America.” Imam Lawal’s message resonated with the audience, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility in navigating the complexities of the present times. He further decried the prevalent moral decay within society, highlighting the alarming trend of celebrating negativity while neglecting fundamental virtues. His call to action was a return to faith and trust in Allah as the ultimate source of guidance and protection.
Sheikh Abubakri Solaty, the second lecturer, focused on the theme of “Ramadan in the modern world: challenges and opportunities for Muslims.” He stressed the vital role of loyalty within the political landscape, reminding elected officials of their obligations to those who supported their ascent to power. Sheikh Solaty specifically commended President Tinubu’s leadership style as a model for emulation, praising his ability to uplift and empower others within the political sphere. This endorsement served to further consolidate support for the new president within the party ranks. The Sheikh also led a dedicated prayer session for Governor Sanwo-Olu, imploring divine wisdom and guidance for his administration.
Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, the Lagos APC Chairman, articulated the essence of Ramadan as a period of spiritual reflection, focusing on the values of giving, forgiveness, and prayer. He urged party members to utilize the holy month as an opportunity to intercede for Nigeria’s peace, progress, and prosperity, as well as the continued development of Lagos State. His remarks connected the spiritual significance of Ramadan with the practical concerns of governance and societal well-being, reinforcing the party’s commitment to both religious and civic responsibility.
The convergence of religious observance and political engagement at the Ramadan lecture underscores the deep intertwining of these spheres within Nigerian society. The event provided a platform not just for spiritual reflection, but also for political messaging and consolidation of support for the newly elected leadership. The emphasis on unity, patriotism, and moral rectitude served as a reminder of the shared values that underpin the nation’s aspirations for progress and development.
The prayers offered for President Tinubu and Governor Sanwo-Olu reflect the high hopes placed upon their leadership in addressing the complex challenges facing the nation. The event also highlighted the role of religious leaders in shaping public discourse and promoting a sense of collective responsibility towards achieving national goals. The emphasis on moral values and ethical leadership serves as a compass for navigating the complexities of governance and building a more just and prosperous society.
