Lagos — By this weekend, Nigerian Muslims would be rounding off one of the five obligatory observances of their religion with the celebration of the Eid-el-Fitri. In the past 30 days or so, they have joined their counterparts all over the world in observing the obligatory fasting.

During this period, in total submission to the injunction of Allah, they have abstained from food and drinks from dawn to dusk and also shunned all forms of vices. They embraced the virtues of kindness, justice, honesty, moral uprightness, decency and self-discipline, which have defined the growth of decent socities.

While congratulating Muslims on the occasion of the Eid-el-Fitri celebration, we feel obliged to point attention to some evergreen lessons of this great religious observance, which, if imbibed by the nation's leaders especially, are capable of making life more meaningful for the people of this country.

Though the month-long fasting has come and gone, its lessons must endure. This is especially necessary at this stage of the nation's development when political fraud is robbing the people of the real value for their democratic endeavours; where massive graft in high places is worsening the people's standard of living; and when ethnic uprisings and sectarian violence are threatening to tear the country apart.

At the root of political fraud and pervasive corruption in the country is the senseless crave for materialism, whereby a privileged few monopolises the wealth of the nation. This singular crime is particularly frowned at by Almighty God and is vehemently discouraged by Ramadan fasting.

Ramadan took Muslims away from the fast-paced life around them, exposing them to their spiritual roots and teaching them that true humanity does not equate mere material possessions, passions or physical cravings.

This is the whole essence of sharing with and caring for the needy and the less privileged that is common during the fasting period. If this spiritual core of man is recognised, it could lead to a positive change in our perspective on life: there would be no room for senseless materialism, greed and primitive accumulation of wealth. Rather, there would be greater concern for the poor.

Ramadan fasting is a leveller of sorts, as both the rich and poor are exposed to hunger and thirst at the same time without any exception. Thus, after feeling the pangs of hunger and thirst, the wealthy should become more empathetic to the plight of millions of their less fortunate compatriots and those in positions of authority should make policies that would alleviate the sufferings of the people.

That Islam is a religion of peace is eminently demonstrated by its name, which is taken from the Arabic word "salam" (peace). This was aptly emphasised by the various public lectures, symposia and workshops that took place during the holy month of Ramadan. But even as the fasting has now ended, Muslims should continue to preach peace, justice and tolerance while condemning terrorism, injustice and bigotry.

They should resist the systematic hijacking of the religion by extremists and fanatics whose anti-social conducts often give Islam the bad image it currently suffers. This can be done if Muslim leaders all over the country would show good example by speaking up against the activities of those misguided elements among the flock.

This is where we find the efforts of the Sultan of Sokoto worthy of commendation. Barely three years on the Sultanate throne, Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III has built considerable bridges of understanding across the country, showing practical examples in religious tolerance and peaceful co-existence among all tribes and creeds. His noble efforts should be replicated by all stakeholders in the guest for peace for mankind and the betterment of this country.