The Chief Imam of the Lagos State University, Amidu Sanni, has urged Muslims to remain disciplined, righteous and charitable as the Ramadan fast begins.

According to the cleric, discipline and alms giving  to the needy are the hallmark of the Ramadan season.

Mr Sanni spoke with journalists in Lagos on Saturday.

The cleric congratulated the Muslim community on the commencement of Ramadan fast on Saturday.

He described the Islamic month of Ramadan as a time of spiritual rebirth, saying that the month-long fast was not merely about abstinence from food, drinks and sexual interactions from dawn to dusk.

“It is more about instilling discipline in the faithful such that if one is able to restrain from legitimate acts within a time frame, keeping away from bad acts wouldn’t be a problem after the month-long exercise.

“Muslim clerics should emphasise the need for keeping away from illegitimate resources; such resources attract no reward if expended before, during or after Ramadan.

“Engaging in immorality, backbiting, spending of time and resources in frivolities, all vitiate Ramadan fasting.

“Preachers and clerics, during the month, should dwell on the need to earn and utilise only legitimate resources for fasting and acts of charity,” he said.

Mr Sanni said that illicit earnings were not approved at any time in Islam.

“Using such to observe Ramadan will not only be in nullity but will also earn the culprit additional punishment.

“Improved acts of charity to the vulnerable is highly recommended, and feeding the poor at dusk or dawn is highly recommended.

“The wealthy should extend love and sympathy to the needy, and family ties should be maintained.”

 (NAN)