Cleric urges Nigerians to pray for peace, unity

The Chief Imam of Islamic Centre, Uwani in Enugu State, Alhaji Abdul Isola, has urged Nigerians particularly Muslims to use the Ramadan fasting to pray for peace and unity in the country.

Isola gave the advice on Saturday while speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the essence and spiritual benefits of the forthcoming Ramadan.

He said what the country needed now was a concerted effort and not divisive tendencies as it concerns the nation’s economy.

“If there is any time citizens needed to support the government it is now and those in authority need our support and prayers more than ever.

“There is no need to add to the hardship and difficulties in the land with unnecessary disagreements and strifes,’’ he said.

The cleric, who doubles as the Chief Missioner of the centre, urged Nigerians to support the anti-corruption fight of the Federal Government.

“Our basic headache is massive looting of the treasury and wealth of the nation and dumping same in developed countries.

“If half of what had been stolen in the country in the past 10 years were repatriated and given to a focused leadership, I believe we would be among the leading countries of the world,’’ he said.

Isola said Ramadan is a period Muslims and mankind should draw closer to Almighty Allah for forgiveness and blessings.

NAN reports that Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, and one of the five pillars of Islam begins barely seven days now.

Fasting in Ramadan period is compulsory for all Muslims, except the sick, women in their menstrual circle, travelers, pregnant or nursing women and the aged.