Hijrah 1446: Ex-Commissioner, Afonja greets Muslim on new year
Oyo former Commissioner for Works and Transport, Professor Rapheal Abdul-Rahmon Afonja (PARA), has rejoiced with his Muslim brothers and sisters in Ogbomoso, Oyo State and Nigeria in commemoration of new year islamic calendar (Hijrah 1446).
In his congratulatory message on Sunday, the former commissioner said the Islamic new year serves as a period to reflect on the past encounters.
He called on Muslim Ummah to embrace patience as a way of life noting that Prophet Muhammad (SAW) migrated from Makkah to Madinah in 1622 A. D. after the people of Makkah frustrated him.
While expressing hope for a year filled with blessings for all believers in spite of the economic hardship in the country, Prof Afonja encouraged the people to remain devoted to their prayers for ease.
He equally called on Muslim Ummah to uphold values of tolerance, brotherhood, respect, patriotism and goodwill to the nation and people around us.
Afonja who commended Governor Makinde for his religious harmony in the state, however urged the people of Oyo state to keep supporting Governor Makinde in prayer.
“As we enter a new year, we must not only celebrate alone but strive, as part of what Allah commands, to incorporate the lessons of the essence of the Hijrah as proven by uncommon patience and endurance by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in the face of hardship.”