13/03/2026
OGSJ 4TH RAMADAN LECTURE: OGUN CJ REMINDS MUSLIM FAITHFULS TO ALWAYS DEMONSTRATE ACT OF KINDNESS AND SIMPLICITY
Muslim faithfuls have been reminded not to see Ramadan period as merely a season of fasting and prayer, but a moment needed for renewing ones commitment to moral excellence, compassion, humility, kindness and accountability before the Creator of all. This reminder was made by the Chief Judge of Ogun State,Hon Justice Mosunmola Arinola Dipeolu at the 4th Edition of the Ogun State Judiciary Ramadan Lecture, held at the Judiciary Complex,Kobape., Abeokuta
The Chief Judge at the event asserted that the yearly Ramadan Lecture offers more than an intellectual engagement as it provides a moment of spiritual retreat, an opportunity for ethical introspection, and a time for moral recalibration. While adding that in the demanding environment of public service, particularly within the Judiciary, such moments of reflection are not merely desirable but a prove that such is indispensable.
Quoting from the holy Qur'an, Suratul Al-Anbiya (21:107), His Lordship pointed out the need for individuals to be merciful to people around them and prioritise kindness as shown as one of the defining attributes of the Prophet's leadership. Reminding them that the kindness exemplified was not selective or transactional but a principled and universal one extended to believers and non-believers, friends and adversaries alike.
“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. In Suratul Al-Hadid (57:20), the Qur’an reminds us:
“Know that the life of this world is but amusement, diversion, adornment, and boasting among you…”
This reminder is particularly relevant in an age marked by consumerism, competitive display, and material obsession. The Prophet’s life teaches us that true dignity lies not in ostentation, but in righteousness and humility. Ramadan reinforces this ethics of simplicity. Fasting equalizes humanity: the wealthy and the poor experience hunger alike. It reminds the powerful that sustenance ultimately comes from Allah, not from status or privilege. It softens the heart and disciplines the ego.” The Chief Judge added.
Charging members of the Judiciary, His Lordship admonished all to see themselves as custodians of public trust which can be sustained not merely by legal competence, but by moral credibility. Pointing that citizens perceive kindness in their conduct and simplicity in their lifestyle which can deepens confidence in the justice system.
In His Lordship welcome address, Hon.Justice O. Onafowokan admonished Muslim faithfuls not to see Ramadan period as only a month of fasting, but a month of reflection, renewal, mercy and deep spiritual growth rather than as a time when acts soften , prayers increase, and the best moment to connect with the Holy Quran and one another. While he also reminded them that the holy month of Ramadan is the time every good deed will be multiplied, and every sincere step towards understanding the Islamic religion brings them closer to Almighty Allah.
Speaking on the theme “ Kindness and living a simple life through the lens of Prophet Muhammad” Professor Oladosu of Arabic and Islamic studies,Ibadan, asserted that while talking about kindness and simplicity of the life of Mohammed in the month of Ramadan , such brings to mind the necessity for individuals to ponder the faith that institutionalized Islam. The cleric also charged all to live a life of compassion, simplicity and shun excessive materialism.
Professor Oladosu also pointed reasons why expression of kindness and simplify is difficult for people as, ignorance, argument base on pycho social disorder and lack of compassion. He also added that emulating such traits requires contentment, looking for people’s comfort, show of solace and always endeavor to be the first person of contact when people are facing challenges.
“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, the cleric also pointed”
Thereafter, prayers were offered for Nigeria, Ogun State, the Hon. Chief Judge, Honourable Judges, Magistrates, Judicial Research Officers and other Members of Staff of the Ogun State Judiciary.