The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Hon. Justice Mosunmola Arinola Dipeolu, has called on Muslim faithfuls to look beyond the rituals of fasting and prayer during Ramadan and use the period as an opportunity for moral renewal, compassion, and humility.
Justice Dipeolu made the remarks at the 4th edition of the Ogun State Judiciary Ramadan Lecture, held at the Judiciary Complex in Kobape, Abeokuta.
Delivering her address, the Chief Judge described the annual lecture as more than an intellectual exercise, emphasizing that it serves as a moment for spiritual retreat, ethical introspection, and moral recalibration. She noted that such reflection is especially vital for those in public service, particularly within the Judiciary.
Citing Suratul Al-Anbiya (21:107) from the Holy Qur’an, Justice Dipeolu reminded attendees that kindness is a defining attribute of Prophet Muhammad’s leadership—universal in nature and extended to all, regardless of belief or standing.
“The kindness exemplified was not selective or transactional but a principled and universal one extended to believers and non-believers, friends and adversaries alike,” she said.
The Chief Judge also underscored the importance of simplicity in leadership, particularly for judicial officers. Drawing from Suratul Al-Hadid (57:20), she warned against excessive materialism and its potential to compromise integrity.
“Simplicity in leadership safeguards integrity. When one is detached from excessive materialism, one becomes less vulnerable to undue influence and corruption. For judicial officers, simplicity nurtures contentment, and contentment protects against greed and ethical compromise,” Justice Dipeolu added.
She further noted that fasting during Ramadan serves as a spiritual equalizer, reminding both the powerful and the vulnerable of their shared dependence on the Creator.
In his welcome address, Hon. Justice O. Onafowokan urged Muslims to view Ramadan not only as a month of fasting but also as a time for reflection, mercy, and spiritual growth. He encouraged the faithful to seize the season as an opportunity to deepen their connection with the Qur’an and with one another.
Delivering the keynote lecture titled “Kindness and Living a Simple Life Through the Lens of Prophet Muhammad,” Professor Oladosu of the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, University of Ibadan, called on Muslims to embrace compassion and reject excessive materialism.
He identified ignorance, psycho-social disorder, and lack of compassion as key obstacles to expressing kindness and simplicity in daily life. He urged individuals to cultivate contentment, provide solace to others, and strive to be a source of comfort during times of difficulty.
“A sign of simplicity should be that people don’t feel awful or intimidated whenever they are around you, but rather get encouraged by your act of kindness and simplicity,” Professor Oladosu said.
The event concluded with prayers offered for Nigeria, Ogun State, the Chief Judge, and all members of the Ogun State Judiciary.
