.Food vendor laments inflation, others
.Muslim faithful preach love for humanity
By Kola Alhassan
Ramadan is that period when adherents of the Muslim faith fast and submit in humility and self-denial while making supplications to God. It is an annual event and part of the pillars of Islam. Devout Muslims are involved from the start to finish.
However, this reporter moved round the Ikeja axis of Lagos to feel the pulse of people- traders, worshippers and residents on what has been their experiences so far as the Ramadan winds down in a couple of days.
A food vendor around Ikeja under bridge who identified herself as Aramide Adekunle, a native of Oyo State, lamented the inflation in the country. She complained that prices of commodities had shot high and she doesn’t make profit from the food she sells. According to her, there is a dip in sales during this period.
She said: “There is low patronage this period. Things are just too expensive.Even after sales,there is no profit. And there are debts to pay. A big keg of palm oil now costs N23,000. It was formerly N6,000. The hardship in this country is killing. Government should act.”
In the same vein, Admore Eze , a shoe seller in Computer village said: “This time ,there is a decrease in sales probably because people are saving because of the Ramadan. Then, pupils just resumed school and parents have paid fees. After this fast, things should pick up.”
A physically-challenged man, Yusuf Abdullahi, noted that Ramadan has brought him closer to God. He noted that since the fast started he has been dedicated despite his condition.
“The fast has made come close to Allah.
Since it started, I have been involved,” he said.
Musa Muhammad, a 10-year-old disabled boy who was begging alms along Kodesoh , said he was observing the fast despite staying under the scorching sun. He noted that he lives in Agege axis of Lagos.
“I am also fasting. I come from Agege everyday. My brothers are around this place too,” he said.
Ramadan a time for renewal
When this reporter visited Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) Ikeja, it was time for prayers. Muslim faithful in their large numbers were seen praying in the school mosque.
Speaking to IkejaBird after praying, Rofiat Adebayo said: The experience is nice. This is a time to renew our relationship with God and move closer to him. It is a time to show love to the less privileged. We should give alms more to the needy.
“For those who go back to their old ways after Ramadan,they should be steadfast and resist the urge to backslide.
For instance, I know a man who drank alcohol heavily, but has now changed. Ramadan had an impact on him.”
