Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN has lauded Oyo State Government for declaring public holiday to mark the first day of the new Islamic year.
This is contained in a statement in Ibadan by Chairman, MMPN Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi on the occasion of the beginning of Hijrah 1443 A.H.
Alhaji Fasasi commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his magnanimity and also in redeeming his pledge that Hijrah holiday will henceforth be declared in the state.
The MMPN Chairman who enjoined other States to emulate the gesture urged Governor Makinde to ensure that the holiday is gazetted so that successive administrations will follow suit.
He noted that the constant use of the Hijrah Calendar will keep Muslims abreast of time of religious rites and as a frame of reference to major historical events, which will help them to be linked with their roots and enhance their knowledge of the religion.
Alhaji Fasasi called on Muslims to use the day to reflect on their acts of worship with a view to improving as Hijrah literally means migration from evil ways to Godliness.
The MMPN Chairman who called on Muslims to also use the holiday judiciously for activities like spiritual development, knowledge acquisition and family visits admonished them to create time to pray for peace and unity of the State and the country as well as an end to the coronavirus pandemic.
