The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has called on Nigerians to use the sacred periods of Ramadan and Lent as opportunities for repentance, moral reflection and strengthening family values.
Eko Hot News reports that Hamzat made the appeal at the Annual Ramadan Lecture organised in honour of the late parents of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Taxation and Revenue, Abdul-Kabir Opeyemi Ogungbo.
The event took place at the FOA Primary School Compound in Idado and focused on the theme, “Divine Justice: Repentance, Restitution and Re-Alignment.”
Speaking at the gathering, Hamzat emphasised that true peace within society begins when individuals obey divine teachings and treat their neighbours with kindness and respect.
He explained that many social challenges facing society often arise when people ignore the teachings of holy scriptures and the cultural values that promote harmony and mutual respect.
According to the Deputy Governor, both the Qur’an and the Bible encourage believers to practise honesty, compassion and fairness in their daily lives.
Hamzat noted that the essence of faith is not only religious devotion but also how individuals treat people around them. He added that peaceful coexistence begins with respect for neighbours and community members.
He further explained that Islamic teachings encourage believers to ensure their neighbours live in comfort and peace. According to him, actions that disturb others weaken the sense of community.
The Deputy Governor also observed that wrongdoing affects fellow humans rather than God directly. He noted that when people ignore ethical guidance, it damages trust and social relationships within the community.
Hamzat highlighted the important role parents play in shaping the character of younger generations. He stressed that children must be taught moral values, respect for elders and the importance of honesty.
He added that elders are not limited to parents alone but include anyone older within the community. Respect for elders, he said, remains an important cultural value across different Nigerian traditions.
Hamzat therefore encouraged fathers and parents to remain committed to their responsibilities by providing care, guidance and moral support for their families.
Earlier in his welcome address, Ogungbo explained that the Ramadan lecture series was established 19 years ago by his late parents, Kalifa Shuaib Ogunbo and Basira Omolamakey Ogunbo.
He said the initiative began as a modest spiritual gathering but has grown into a respected platform for reflection, learning and strengthening moral consciousness within society.
According to him, the programme offers an opportunity for leaders, professionals and community members to reflect on spiritual values that guide both public service and personal conduct.
Delivering the lecture, Islamic scholar Abdul-Wakeel Ogungbo emphasised the importance of repentance and restitution in building a just society.
He reminded participants that every action is accountable before God and urged individuals to practise self-discipline, honesty and constant remembrance of divine guidance.
The cleric also encouraged people to surround themselves with positive influences and friends who inspire moral growth and responsible living.
Participants at the lecture noted that such gatherings continue to promote spiritual reflection, community unity and renewed commitment to ethical values in society.
