Ramadan: Saraki, Dogara, Ekweremadu seek prayers for security, economic prosperity

President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki; and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, have called on Muslims to pray for a turnaround in the fortunes of Nigeria as they join their counterparts across the world to observe this year’s Ramadan fast.

Saraki gave his advice in a goodwill message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, in Abuja on Sunday.

He noted that since fasting symbolises internal cleansing and spiritual renewal, the country could benefit from the prayers of the faithful during the period.

Saraki said, “It is my prayer that Allah accept the earnest prayers and sacrifices of the Muslim Ummah during this Holy Month. May we emerge better, both at the individual and national levels, after this spiritual exercise.

“Let us seek an end to recurring killings, kidnappings and all forms of insecurity in our country. As community leaders and members of the Islamic faith, we have a responsibility to work for peace in our communities in particular, and the country in general.

“We cannot afford to gloss over the present level of insecurity and harsh economic realities in our country. Therefore, let us pray earnestly for Allah’s intervention in the socio-economic life of our people.”

The Senate President also called on all leaders to put in place policies and programmes that would directly benefit the people and gainfully engage the nation’s growing youth population.

Also, Dogara enjoined Muslims to use the Ramadan period to pray against ongoing killings, kidnappings and banditry in parts of Nigeria.

He also appealed to those who are well-to-do in the society to show compassion and extend hands of support to the less privileged ones in the spirit of the season.

While describing Ramadan as a period of devotion, obedience and  spiritual rebirth, Dogara urged Muslims to commit themselves to prayers for peace, security and stability of Nigeria.

The Speaker said, “As Ramadan begins, I want to felicitate with our Muslim brethren for witnessing yet another season of spiritual significance.

“I want to enjoin you to use the holy month to reflect and re-dedicate yourselves to prayers for our dear nation against the current spate of killings,  kidnappings, banditry and other security challenges, especially in the northern part of the country.

“I also call on our religious leaders not to relent in their prayers and preaching for unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence in order to build a nation that we will all be proud of.”

Also, the Deputy President of the Senate, Ike Ekweremadu, urged Nigerians to stand united in prayers during the Ramadan.

He stated that the nation’s challenges, though many, were surmountable if prayers and the right attitudes were applied.

Ekweremadu made the call in his goodwill message issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Uche Anichukwu, in Abuja on Sunday.

The Deputy Senate President said, “At Ramadan, let the nation unite in prayer, for the spirit of unity, love, forgiveness, justice, and peaceful co-existence to prevail in the nation. With these, we can easily surmount other challenges.

“Importantly, I urge our Muslim brothers and sisters to also offer special prayers for members of our armed forces and security agencies, who are grappling with enormous security challenges at the moment.”