OGBOMOSO — In a powerful call for religious tolerance and national rebirth, Hon. Wale Adeleke, a veteran politician and former Executive Chairman of Ogbomoso South Local Government, has described the rare 2026 convergence of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and the Christian season of Lent as a divine testament that "God is one." Addressing the community as both sacred seasons commenced simultaneously on February 18, 2026, Adeleke emphasized that the length and spiritual weight of this year’s fasting periods are symbolic of the unity, love, and harmony required to move the nation forward. Adeleke noted that the 2026 calendar, which sees the 30-day Islamic fast and the 40-day Lenten period overlapping, is not a mere coincidence but a "sign of unity" orchestrated by the Almighty. "This year, the length of our fasts and the alignment of our prayers show that we are serving the same Creator," Adeleke stated. "It is a clear message of love and harmony, proving that despite our different paths, God is one. We must use this period to bury our differences and embrace our shared humanity." Call for Spiritual Reflection The former Ogbomoso South chairman urged residents to reflect on the core values of both traditions. Adeleke encouraged the affluent to support the less privileged, highlighting that "true worship is found in how we treat our neighbors". He called on all faithful to pray for peace in Ogbomoso,Oyo state and across Nigeria, especially as the nation prepares for future democratic exercises. This simultaneous start of Ramadan and Lent is a rare occurrence that happens roughly every 33 years due to the Islamic lunar calendar`s shift. The rare calendar convergence, which saw both the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and the Christian season of Lent begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, has been described by Adeleke and other leaders as a "divine signal" for national unity and religious harmony in Nigeria. Adeleke characterized the overlap as an intentional act of the "Maker of all mankind" to remind adherents that despite different traditions, they share a common spiritual heritage and moral journey. He urged the people of Ogbomoso,Oyo State and Nigeria at large to use this "strategic" coincidence to rise above ethnic and religious differences, fostering peace and collective progress. The leader emphasized the common virtues of both seasons—sacrifice, self-discipline, compassion, and intense prayer—as the foundation for building a stronger community. Hon. Wale Adeleke, a leading member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Ogbomoso zone, currently seeking a seat in the Oyo State House of Assembly, has earned a reputation for fostering community unity and acting as a `dependable pillar of support` for regional advancement. Adeleke concluded by reminding the people of Ogbomoso South Local Government that the ultimate goal of the season is to "emerge as better citizens, bound by love and a renewed commitment to our collective progress."
