The Senator representing Oyo North Senatorial District, Senator Abdulfatai Omotayo Buhari has extended his warmest greetings and heartfelt felicitation to Muslim Ummah and Christian faithful across Oyo North, Oyo State and Nigeria at large as both religious communities commence their sacred fasting seasons.
Senator Buhari noted with deep spiritual reflection that it is profoundly symbolic and divinely instructive that Muslims and Christians are observing fasting periods at the same time — a moment he describes as “a rare spiritual convergence ordained by God Almighty to cleanse hearts, purify intentions, and heal our nation.”
Addressing the Muslim faithfuls on the commencement of Ramadan fasting, the Senator urged total submission to the will of Almighty Allah, devotion to prayers, charity and compassion to humanity.
He drew from the Holy Qur’an:
“O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may attain righteousness.” — Qur’an 2:183
Senator Buhari emphasized that Ramadan is not merely abstinence from food and drink, but a sacred season of self-discipline, sacrifice, forgiveness and generosity to the less privileged.
He called on Muslims to use the period to pray fervently for peace, security, progress and leadership wisdom in Nigeria.
In the same breath, the Senator extended special goodwill to Christian faithful who are equally observing their fasting and Lenten solemnities.
He noted that Christian fasting represents spiritual renewal, penitence and deeper communion with God, anchored on the teachings and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Quoting the Holy Bible, he states:
“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do… But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face.” — Matthew 6:16–17
And further:
“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice… to share your food with the hungry?” — Isaiah 58:6–7
Senator Buhari therefore called on Christians to let the fasting period reflect love, justice, charity and national intercession for Nigeria’s healing and restoration.
The Lawmaker stresses that the simultaneous fasting period should not divide but unite Nigerians across faith lines.
“Whether Muslim or Christian, fasting teaches sacrifice, humility, tolerance and love. Our nation needs these virtues now more than ever,” he said.
He urged religious leaders to use this sacred window to preach peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and national unity, adding that Oyo North remains a shining example of interfaith harmony.
Senator Buhari concluded by praying that Almighty Allah and God Almighty accept the prayers, supplications, sacrifices and acts of charity of all faithfuls, granting Nigeria peace, prosperity and righteous leadership.
Packaged by Dare Raji
