As Muslims commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad, people need to emulate the virtue of tolerance and truthfulness as demonstrated by the renowned prophet of Islam.
The grand Mufti of Oyo State, Sheikh Ismail Busari Okunmeebo gave the charge at the first Engr Jubril Dọtun Sanusi Maolud Nabbiy celebration.
The event, held at the biggest stadium of the multibillion naira Ilaji Hotel and Sports Resort, Akanran area of Ibadan, witnessed the convergence of thousands of Islamic faithful who came from across the five geopolitical zones of the State; Ibadan, Ibarapa, Oyo, Oke-Ogun and Ogbomoso areas of the State.
The celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad popularly known as Maolud Nabbiy provides atmosphere for Muslims to reflect on the exemplary life of the prophet. It also marked a special prayer session led by the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abdulganiy Agbotomokekere in appreciation of Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi relentless supports for the cause of Islam.
The billionaire businessman and foremost philanthropist in the State, Jubril Dotun Sanusi organised the celebration of the prophet’s birthday amidst pomp and pageantry.
The host and Jagun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Jubril Dọtun Sanusi who stated that Ilaji Hotel and Sports Resort have been organizing several other Islamic programmes on annual basis within and outside the ultramodern Mosque he single-handedly built in the resort, said the maiden Maolud Nabbiy celebration will not be a one-off event.
Engr. Jubril Dotun Sanusi enjoined people to emulate the virtues of prophet Muhammad which he maintained were about the divine prescription for a peaceful and harmonious coexistence.
He stressed the prophet’s virtues to include but not limited to compassion and mercy; honesty and integrity; humility and modesty; perseverance and patience; forgiveness and tolerance; respect and care for all; unity and brotherhood and above all, seeking knowledge and submission to the will of Almighty Allah.
Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi thereafter appreciated all the renown Islamic leaders; notable Imams and Alfas across the state as well as Muslim faithful who were present including the President-General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCIII), Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole; Association of Ibadan Mogajis; Baales; Leaders of various trade and artisan groups, as well as representatives of various Islamic groups for the celebration of Prophet’s birthday.
Delivering a sermon, the grand Mufti of Oyo State, Sheikh Ismail Busari Okunmeebo underscored the exemplary leadership qualities of Prophet Muhammad which he highlighted as including truthfulness, tolerance, and humility among others.
In his goodwill message, the Chief of staff to the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Prof. Kamil Oloso dispelled the wrong notion that Prophet Muhammad was known for war, noting that he was rather peaceful and tolerance even with non-muslims.
