As Muslims across the globe commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad, Nigerians have been enjoined to emulate the virtue of tolerance and truthfulness as demonstrated by the renowned Islamic prophet.
The grand Mufti of Oyo State, Sheikh Ismail Busari Okunmeebo, gave the admonition at the first Engr Jubril Dọtun Sanusi Maolud Nabbiy celebration.
The event, held at the Ilaji Hotel and Sports Resort Stadium, Akanran, Ibadan, witnessed the convergence of thousands of Islamic faithful who came from Ibadan, Ibarapa, Oyo, Oke-Ogun and Ogbomoso areas of the state.
The celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad, popularly known as Maolud Nabbiy, provides atmosphere for Muslims to reflect on the exemplary life of the prophet. It also marked a special prayer session led by the Chief Imam of Ibadan land, Sheikh Abdulganiy Agbotomokekere, in appreciation of Sanusi’s relentless supports for the cause of Islam.
The billionaire businessman and foremost philanthropist in the state, Sanusi organised the celebration of the prophet’s birthday amidst pomp and pageantry.
The host and Jagun Olubadan of Ibadan land, Sanusi who stated that Ilaji Hotel and Sports Resort have been organising several other Islamic programmes on annual basis within and outside the ultramodern Mosque he built in the resort, said the maiden Maolud Nabbiy celebration will not be a one-off event.
Sanusi enjoined people to emulate the virtues of Prophet Muhammad, which he maintained were about the divine prescription for a peaceful and harmonious coexistence.
He stressed the prophet’s virtues to include, but not limited to compassion and mercy, honesty and integrity, humility and modesty, perseverance and patience, forgiveness and tolerance, respect and care for all, unity and brotherhood and above all, seeking knowledge and submission to the will of Almighty Allah.
Sanusi appreciated all the renowned Islamic leaders, notable Imams and Alfas across the state as well as Muslim faithful who were present, including the President-General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCIII), Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, Ibadan Mogajis, Baales, leaders of various trade and artisan groups, as well as representatives of various Islamic groups for the celebration of Prophet’s birthday.
Delivering a sermon, the grand Mufti of Oyo State, Sheikh Ismail Busari Okunmeebo underscored the exemplary leadership qualities of Prophet Muhammad, which he highlighted as including truthfulness, tolerance and humility among others.
In his goodwill message, the Chief of Staff to the Chief Imam of Ibadan land, Prof. Kamil Oloso, dispelled the wrong notion that Prophet Muhammad was known for war, noting that he was peaceful and tolerate everyone, including non-muslims.
