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Sen. Sharafadeen Alli, representing Oyo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has called for renewed commitment to righteousness as Muslims across the world celebrates new Hijrah Year 1445 A.H.
This was contained in a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen in Ibadan, on Wednesday.
The new Hijrah Year 1445 A.H begins on Wednesday, Muharram 1, 1445 AH corresponding with July 19, 2023 of the Christian Era (C E).
Alli, who is the Maye Balogun of Ibadan land and a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), enjoined Muslims to use the privilege of witnessing another year to renew their faith and commitment to righteousness.
The lawmaker said that the new year offers all the opportunity of spiritual rebirth and closeness to Allah through devotion and obedience.
“Without being obedient, righteous, discipline, faithful and submissive to the will of Allah as enshrined in the Qu’ran and Sunnah, the essence of Hijrah is compromised and defeated,” he said.
He urged Muslim faithful to move closer to Allah, while rededicating their lives to His divine service and humanity.
Alli urged Muslims to also use the occasion to pray fervently for the peace and stability of Oyo State as well as Nigeria.
“We must all contribute to the building of a just and peaceful society. We all have to exhibit great commitment to the building of an egalitarian society.
“As we begin Hijrah 1445AH, there is need for us all to imbibe the spirit of peaceful co-existence among ourselves, irrespective of our individual religious affiliations.
“We must learn to be our brothers’ keepers. We must understand that Nigeria can only achieve progress and move to greater height in an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity,” he said.
The lawmaker added that Islam symbolises peace, urging all to eschew all actions that promotes violence.
He urged Nigerians not allow themselves to be used to pull down the country and set it on the path of retrogression.
Alli congratulated Muslims on Hijrah 1445 AH celebration, praying that Almighty Allah will spare their lives to witness many more of it.
“I wish you all a happy celebration. Assallam ‘aalaykum wa Rahmatulah wa Barakatuhu,” he added.