Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has stated that the Ramadan fast should make Muslims realise what it means to go without eating from morning to evening, thereby appreciating the plight of millions of poor Nigerians who go on empty stomach daily.
In a goodwill message to Muslims to mark the commencement of the Ramadan fast, Atiku stated that the occasion should be a unique opportunity for Muslims to demonstrate greater self-discipline and compassion for the weak, the poor and the suffering.
While appealing to followers of the Islamic faith in Nigeria to observe the holy month with soul-searching and deeper commitment to the family, he urged Muslims to pray for Nigeria and its leaders at all levels to overcome the challenges confronting the country as they start 30 days Ramadan fast.
His statement reads, “Muslims should use the occasion to increase their love and compassion for the less fortunate members of the society. We should take the spirit of compassion beyond Ramadan by making it a permanent feature of our everyday life.”