Egbewole greets Unilorites on Ramadan, Lenten seasons
By Abubakar Imam
As Muslims all over the world and their counterparts in Christiandom begin this year’s Ramadan and Lent, respectively, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has congratulated members of the University community for witnessing this year’s editions of the vital religious observances.
In a statement issued by the University’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr Kunle Akogun, the Vice Chancellor described the seasons, which are characterised by worship, sacrifice,and piety, as opportunities for adherents of Islam and Christianity to renew their faiths and also rebuild their relationships with their fellow human beings
He explained that the “simultaneous commencement” of the two seasons is not a mere coincidence but a cogent indication of the oneness of humanity.
Prof. Egbewole urged members of the University community to conduct themselves during the periods as provided for in their respective holy books.
The Vice Chancellor, who reminded them that both seasons go beyond just doing away with eating, drinking and avoidance of legitimate sex, said that the seasons were institutionalised to inculcate discipline, piety and sense of sacrifice in the adherents.
He enjoined them to use the seasons to deliberately elevate their faith and promote good neighbourliness, saying that anyone who goes into either of the observances with piety and as ordained would definitely be spiritually elevated thereafter.
Prof. Egbewole, who is the Vice President (West Africa) of the Association of African Universities (AAU), commended the level of fraternity and harmony among members of the two different religious persuasions in the University over the years.
He added that the University of Ilorin has become a model in religious tolerance as he said that the University Administration would spare no effort at preserving the heritage.
Prof. Egbewole, who is also the Secretary-General of the Association of West African Universities (AWAU), enjoined members of the University community to use the period to pray for the peace and stability of the Nigerian nation as well as for the progress of the University.
The Vice Chancellor wished all Unilorites peaceful, memorable and rewarding Ramadan and Lent seasons.