Etsu Nupe Calls for Ramadan Prayers to Restore Peace in Nigeria
By Mohammed Baba Busu
The Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, has urged Muslims to intensify their prayers during the Holy Month of Ramadan to foster the return of lasting peace in Nigeria.
He emphasized that prayer remains the most potent tool against various challenges facing the nation.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Bida, the traditional ruler extended greetings to Muslims on the start of fasting.
As Chairman of the Niger Council of Traditional Rulers, Abubakar highlighted that security issues such as insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping could be addressed through persistent and sincere prayers during Ramadan.
He further explained that sustained spiritual efforts could help resolve the current security and socio-economic issues via divine intervention.
The Etsu Nupe described Ramadan as an auspicious period for Muslims to pray for sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s issues.
He called on Muslims nationwide to utilize this holy month to pray earnestly for peaceful coexistence, stability, and national progress.
“Prayers in this sacred period will aid our leaders and security forces in overcoming the malicious elements threatening our nation,” he stated.
Additionally, he urged Muslims to renew their dedication to Allah’s service and reflect on His commandments.
Abubakar emphasized that Ramadan should be an opportunity for moral purification and gratitude to Allah.
He advised strict adherence to Ramadan’s principles to secure Allah’s blessings.
“I encourage Muslims to use Ramadan to re-examine their lives in line with Islamic teachings, for the sake of peace and development,” he added.
He warned preachers against controversial sermons that could incite discord, advocating instead for messages that promote unity.
“Religious teachings during Ramadan should foster harmony, not division. Clerics should exemplify moral integrity in speech and actions at all times,” he noted.
Furthermore, the traditional ruler called on wealthy Nigerians to assist the less privileged by donating food and funds to ease their hardships.
“The rich should support the poor and widows, which will significantly alleviate their suffering during Ramadan.”
He appealed for generosity to help sustain those fasting, emphasizing that charitable acts during this period strengthen communal bonds.
