Former Executive Chairman of Eredo Local Council Development Area, Adeniyi Saliu, hosted a Ramadan lecture and Iftar gathering in Igboye in honour of his late father, Alhaji Sikiru, drawing political leaders, traditional rulers, and Muslim faithful from across the community.
Epe Insights reports that the spiritually uplifting event brought together stakeholders from different parts of Eredo LCDA for prayers, reflection, and communal fellowship during the holy month of Ramadan.
The programme served as a memorial gathering to honour the legacy of the late Alhaji Sikiru, whose commitment to faith and community unity continues to inspire acts of service and spiritual devotion among residents.
Prominent dignitaries at the event included the Chairman of Eredo LCDA and members of his cabinet, alongside the lawmaker representing Epe Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Wale Raji.
Also present was former lawmaker Wasiu Ayo Odeyemi, in addition to political stakeholders, community leaders, and Muslim faithful from across the area.
Traditional rulers and community representatives from Poka, Odomola, and Odo-Egiri also attended the gathering, demonstrating strong communal support for the annual spiritual event.
Among the royal fathers present was the Onile-Onile of Igboye, whose presence underscored the significance of the gathering within the traditional and cultural structure of the community.
Delivering the Ramadan lecture, Islamic cleric Imam Sikiru emphasized the importance of prayer and devotion in the lives of believers, particularly among those holding leadership positions.
The cleric observed that many political leaders often become overwhelmed by the responsibilities of governance and neglect their spiritual obligations.
He stressed that prayer remains a fundamental pillar that strengthens leadership and guides individuals toward righteous decisions.
“Many political leaders hardly create time to pray and worship God. Leadership without prayer is like cooking a delicious meal without salt,” the Imam said during his sermon.
The cleric also reflected on the history of the gathering, explaining that the Ramadan prayer session began during the lifetime of the late Alhaji Sikiru.
According to him, the programme initially took place within the sitting room of the late patriarch before it gradually grew into a larger communal gathering.
He encouraged Muslims to use the Ramadan period to strengthen their relationship with Allah through prayer, charity, and acts of kindness.
Participants were reminded that Ramadan represents a time for self-discipline, spiritual renewal, and renewed commitment to serving humanity.
Several dignitaries present at the event delivered goodwill messages to the Saliu family, praising the initiative and its role in promoting unity within the community.
They commended Hon. Adeniyi Saliu for sustaining the spiritual programme in honour of his late father, describing the effort as a meaningful act of remembrance.
Community leaders noted that the annual lecture has become an important platform for fostering faith-based dialogue and encouraging moral values.
The gathering also featured the traditional Ramadan Iftar, where participants shared meals together after the day’s fast.
The communal meal created an atmosphere of brotherhood, gratitude, and reflection among attendees.
Observers noted that such gatherings strengthen social bonds and encourage collaboration among community leaders.
For residents of Igboye and surrounding communities, the Ramadan lecture has grown into a significant spiritual event that brings together leaders and citizens in unity.
The programme concluded with prayers for peace, prosperity, and continued development across communities within Eredo LCDA and the wider Epe Division.
