Proffer Solutions and Stop Blaming the Government – Sanwo-Olu,

During the 25th State House Ramadan Tafseer Anniversary Prayer at the State House Mosque Complex in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, through his deputy Obafemi Hamzat, delivered a poignant message to the attendees. Facing a period of significant hardship across the country, the governor acknowledged the difficulties but emphasised the importance of collective action and the avoidance of pointing fingers at the government.

Sanwo-Olu’s address highlighted the theme of the lecture: “Allah Will Not Change The Way Of A People, Until They Change What Is In Their Hearts”. He appealed for increased patriotism and love among citizens as essential components in tackling the nation’s socio-economic challenges. With a nod to the global recession that has spared no country, including Nigeria, the governor reminded Nigerians of the need to embrace the African tradition of charity and communal living, lamenting the erosion of these values in contemporary society.

Musiliu Obanikoro, a former commissioner for the ministry of home affairs, also spoke at the event, urging Nigerians to utilise the Ramadan period to intensify prayers for the nation’s upliftment. He pointed out a dissonance between the people’s professed faith and their actions, advocating for a lifestyle that mirrors the golden rule of treating others as one wishes to be treated.

Echoing similar sentiments, Olanrewaju Layode, the current commissioner for home affairs, reflected on the quarter-century legacy of the Tafseer gathering. He saw it as a vital platform for fostering unity, brainstorming solutions, and praying for national prosperity. Layode discouraged the criticism of government and fellow citizens, instead encouraging constructive sharing of ideas for national development. He reminded both Muslims and non-Muslims of the importance of praying for their leaders, highlighting the guidance offered by the Quran in navigating the challenges faced by the country.

The consensus among the speakers was clear: overcoming Nigeria’s current socio-economic difficulties requires a collective return to foundational values of community, charity, and mutual respect, underscored by a firm commitment to patriotic action and prayerful support for the nation’s leaders.

Peoples Gazette