Muslims in Nigeria join their counterparts world over to observe the Ramadan fasting, one of the Islamic injunction, the Etsu Nupe and chairman Niger state Council of traditional rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, has pleaded with traders, particularly those in foodstuff across Nigeria not to hike prices of foodstuffs and related commodities.
The royal father made the plea when he spoke to journalists just as he however called on well to do Nigerians to be their brother’s keepers in line with the teachings of the Holy Prophet of Islam and other Islamic injunctions on helping others in need.
The Etsu Nupe said, “I want to appeal to the traders to fear God and conduct themselves and their businesses so as not to compound the problems of the already impoverished Nigerian masses in line with Islamic injunctions and they should also assist their neighbours who have not to break the fast”.
Marketers, according to him should reason with the common man and reduce the cost of their goods so that more people can be able to afford the costs.
“As the holy month of Ramadan commences, traders should feel the pains of the ordinary man on the streets and cut down costs or add less profits to food items, and by doing so they would receive Allah’s blessings in their businesses”.
“Those who may be thinking of price hike of foodstuffs or adding to make more profits on foods during this Ramadan fast should know the consequences of their actions before Almighty Allah on the day of judgment.”
Reacting to the deliberate increase in prices of goods and services; grains, fruits, beverages, and other condiments during Ramadan, the Etsu Nupe said the reverse should be the case because the season is all about fulfilling religious obligations and God will be pleased with them if they do the right thing.
According to the traditional ruler, “This sacred period is a time to seek for God’s face through fasting and good deeds, hence I urge you not to add to the pains adherents of the Islamic faith go through observing the religious obligations”.
He nevertheless appealed to wealthy individuals, corporate organisations and groups to come to the aid of the less privileged ones as acts of charity are greatly encouraged during the holy month of Ramadan.
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