The Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Rauf Olaniyan has attributed the nation’s teething problems and widespread insecurity to religious intolerance, ignorance and lack of knowledge.
Olaniyan who was the special guest of honour at the maiden Ramadan Lecture of the Ibadan Social Group lauded the Abdulrasaq Dele Bakare-led group for the novel idea which came.45years after the club was established in 1976.
The deputy Governor remarked that both leading religious in the country preached religious tolerance and respect for the sanctity of lives.
According to him, “Both religions are the same. No religion is superior to the other. We need to embrace peace and orderliness.
“Ibadan Social Group has done well for humanity by organising Maiden Ramadan Lecture. I am aware they also held Christmas Carol last year. I implore you to continue in this path for the greater good of our society.
“I want to specially commend the Club’s President, Mr. Abdulrasak Dele Bakare for his sterling leadership qualities. I also enjoin today’s lecturer and other religious leaders to always speak truth to power.
“Our administration under His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde is open to constructive criticisms to continue to deliver on the lofty programmes of this government geared towards making society a better place for all of us to live in,” Olaniyan added.
The Guest Lecturer, Ustaz Abdulrasak Olofinjana Zubair, National Chief Missioner, Young Muslim Progressive Association of Nigeria (YOMPAN SA’IDNA), enjoined all Muslims to allow the teachings of Ramadan Guide their day to day activities.
Olofinjana stressed the need for all to support the cause of humanity by caring and sharing whatever God has blessed us with, to assist the less privileged.
While emphasising on the topic of the Lecture is RAMADAN: THE FUTURE OF THE INDIVIDUAL AND THE NATION, Olofinjana charged leaders at all levels to have fear of God, just as he also chastised the followers to always cooperate with the leaders by being good citizens.
The President said his leadership conceptualised the Ramadan Lecture and Christmas Carol to serve as a constant reminder to his colleagues that God has been kind to the group for the past 45years, urging all to keep supporting the club’s activities for the betterment of the society.
The Vice President of the group who doubles as the Chairman, Ramadan Committee 2021, Uthman Adeniyi lauded all the club members for their support and continuous cooperation to the leadership.
Highlight of the programme was the breaking of the fasting (iftar) and special prayers for the founders and members of the club and the society in general.
