The Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta States, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola Akinola, alongside the Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Professor Salihu Abdulrahman, who represented the deputy governor, Barrister Abdulroheem Adebayo Lawal, graced the 2nd Akeem Olatunji Ramadan Lecture in Oluyole Local Government.
The event, which also witnessed the presence of the League of Imams and Alfas in Oluyole, held at the Olunde Eid praying ground.
The event also drew a diverse crowd of dignitaries, Islamic scholars, political stalwarts, and community members who gathered to reflect on the spiritual essence of Ramadan and the importance of unity and compassion.
Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola, in his address, emphasized the dangers of excessive attachment to worldly pursuits, describing the “love of Duniya” (worldly life) as the root of many societal ills. He advocated for patience and forbearance as the antidotes to the growing moral decay and materialism in society.
He equally commended Olatunji’s commitment to promoting religious enlightenment and community development as well as his ability to navigate his role as an administrator and his office as the Aare Musulumi of Oluyole, describing Olatunji as a pride of Ibadanland.
He emphasized the need for continued unity and peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.
Earlier in his Lecture, the guest Lecturer, Imam Dahud Yusuf Alawiy, reflected on the theme “Love of Duniya: Source of All Evils—Patience and Forbearance as the Panacea, explained the need for Muslims to cultivate inner contentment and prioritize spiritual growth over the fleeting pleasures of material wealth.
“The excessive pursuit of worldly possessions blinds the heart to compassion and leads to corruption, greed, and injustice,” Akinola remarked. “As Muslims, we must remember that this life is temporary, and the true measure of success lies in our relationship with Allah and our service to humanity.”
He drew upon Quranic teachings and the Hadiths of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), reminding the audience that wealth and power are mere tests of faith.
“When we chase the Duniya without bounds, we sow the seeds of envy, arrogance, and injustice. It is only through patience (sabr) and forbearance (hilm) that we can overcome these trials and attain true peace.”
The islamic cleric further called on leaders and the youth alike to embrace these virtues in their daily lives. He urged the younger generation to resist the lure of instant gratification, emphasizing the value of hard work, integrity, and perseverance.
“The road to true success is not paved with shortcuts. It requires sacrifice, discipline, and a steadfast belief in the divine purpose of our existence,” he said.
Professor Abdulrahman, representing the Oyo State Government, highlighted the administration’s dedication to promoting education as a tool for societal transformation. He urged the youth to embrace knowledge and discipline while drawing inspiration from Islamic teachings.
The Aare Musulumi of Oluyole, Asiwaju Akeem Olatunji, in his brief remarks, expressed gratitude to the attendees for honoring the event. He reiterated his passion for uplifting his people at the grassroots through initiatives that blend faith, education, and development.
The lecture featured sermons from renowned Islamic scholars who delved into topics surrounding piety, community service, and the spiritual significance of Ramadan while prayers were offered for peace, prosperity, and continued progress in Oluyole LG, Oyo State, and Nigeria as a whole.
Others present at the event were the League of Imam and Alfas in Oluyole LG led by Imam Toliat, members of the Aare Musulumi In-Council, Hon. Settle Olaide Popoola; the immediate past Chairman of Oluyole LG, Hon Niyi Akorede; Council’s Vice Chairman, traditional rulers, PDP ward chairmen, party leaders and others.