By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

Senator representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, Shuaibu Afolabi Salisu, has described the coincidence of the Ramadan and Lenten seasons as a powerful symbol of unity among Nigerians, urging citizens to use the spiritual periods to promote empathy, righteousness and peaceful coexistence.

Salisu spoke with newsmen at the sidelines of an Iftar, he organized at the weekend, where he emphasized the need for Nigerians, irrespective of religious differences, to embrace the shared values of faith, compassion and service to humanity.

According to the lawmaker, the overlap of the Islamic fasting period of Ramadan and the Christian season of Lent underscores the unity of mankind despite differences in modes of worship.

“First and foremost, the coincidence of the Ramadan and Lenten periods is not an accident. It is an indication of the unity of humanity — that we are one and the same regardless of our differences in the mode of worship,” he said.

The senator noted that the Ogun Central he represents symbolises religious harmony and peaceful coexistence, adding that the simultaneous observance of both sacred seasons reinforces a longstanding tradition of tolerance.

“The coming together of Ramadan and the Lenten season is, for us, a revalidation of our history and our heritage of peaceful coexistence,” Salisu stated.

He said the period also provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect collectively as a nation and renew their commitment to God-consciousness and mutual care.

“Regardless of whether you are a Muslim or a Christian, this is a period to rededicate ourselves to God-consciousness, to be our brother’s keeper and to understand religion in its purest form — which is to moderate our relationship with our Creator and with one another,” he added.

Salisu further urged Nigerians to show greater compassion to the less privileged, noting that fasting during Ramadan and Lent should remind people of the struggles faced daily by those who lack basic necessities.

“As we experience the pangs of hunger during this period, we must remember that there are those who feel this same hunger 365 days a year because they do not have enough to eat. Therefore, this spiritual exercise should make us more empathetic toward those who are less privileged,” he said.

The lawmaker also reminded public office holders of the moral responsibility attached to leadership, stressing that accountability ultimately lies before God.

“As we count the days of our time in office, we must remember that the day of reckoning with our Creator will surely come. Even if we deceive people, we cannot deceive God, who sees both the open and the secret,” he noted.

He warned against following societal trends that celebrate wrongdoing, urging citizens to uphold righteousness even when it is unpopular.

“Sometimes society may celebrate vices instead of virtues, but we must consciously choose to stand on the path of righteousness, even when the majority chooses otherwise,” Salisu said.

The senator also thanked the people of Ogun Central Senatorial District for their continued support, calling on both Muslims and Christians to ensure that the fasting periods go beyond abstaining from food.

“Let this fast not be an exercise in abstaining from food alone. Let us dedicate ourselves to the service of our Creator and to being a source of benefit to our fellow human beings,” he added.

The programme was attended by Speaker of Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, Chairman, Ogun State APC, Chief Yemi Sanusj, members of the State Assembly, religious leaders, among others.