President Muhammadu Buhari has sent his best wishes to Muslims as they begin the month-long fast of Ramadan, urging them to use the season “to project the best and finest virtues of Islam by personal conduct, rather than precept.”
Buhari said in a goodwill message to mark the start of the holy month of Ramadan, issued by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, on Wednesday in Abuja:
“Let us seize this opportunity to put the best Islamic teachings, such as kindness and love of humanity, into practice.”
“This is a time for deep reflection, greater fear of Allah, and abstaining from all evils that harm humanity.”
According to Buhari, Ramadan is characterized by abstention from food and drinks from dawn to dusk, which brings both the rich and poor to share the experience of hunger, thereby strengthening the bonds between haves and have-nots.
Buhari further urged, “as we begin these 30 days of fasting season, let us not forget that Ramadan is not only about abstention from eating and drinking, but it is a reminder to refrain from all kinds of evil and transgressions that harm humanity.”
The president frowned at the way and manner some traders artificially increase the prices of their goods during the month of Ramadan.
“I am particularly aware of the activities of traders who artificially increase the prices of their goods, including food at the beginning of every month of Ramadan.
”This kind of exploitation is against the spirit of Ramadan and the spirit of Islam,” Buhari added.
The president challenged wealthy individuals and organizations to always share food and drinks with the less fortunate members of society.
Buhari said: “While we are observing this important occasion in the spiritual life of Muslims, let us share food and drinks with the less fortunate.
”Because by sharing our blessings with others, Allah will multiply our rewards for good deeds.”
