Civil servants in Ogun State and across the country have been urged to uphold integrity and ethical leadership as a practical solution to moral decadence in the public service.
The call was made during the maiden edition of the Annual Ramadan Lecture organised by the Ogun State Ministry of Environment, themed: ‘Integrity in Leadership: Islamic Solution to Moral Decadence in Public Service,’ held at the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board prayer ground, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Tuesday.
Delivering the lecture, the Guest Speaker and Chief Missioner of the Islamic Youth League of Nigeria, Ogun State Division, Sheikh Jubril Lawal, charged leaders to remain steadfast in justice, drawing from Qur’an Chapter 4, Verse 135, which enjoins believers to stand firmly for justice as witnesses to Allah.
He noted that effective leadership requires fairness, accountability, and the protection of public trust, stressing that leaders must treat all citizens equally, avoid discrimination, and safeguard the rights of the weak.
“Leaders must also protect the resources entrusted to them, as accountability is a cornerstone of good governance,” he said.
Speaking further on Islamic approaches to addressing moral decadence, the cleric cited the example of Prophet Yusuf as a model of integrity, prudence, and accountability in leadership, urging public office holders and citizens alike to adopt strong moral values and support systems that promote transparency and accountability.
Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, described the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season as a divine call for unity and peaceful coexistence.
According to him, the period offers a unique opportunity for spiritual reflection and collective commitment to nation-building.
“It is not a coincidence that both Christians and Muslims are fasting at the same time. It is a clear message that God desires unity, peace, and spiritual growth among us,” he said.
In her vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Kafayat Lawal, commended the Commissioner for his inclusive leadership style and for creating a platform that promotes ethical reorientation among public servants.
She added that the lecture would go a long way in reinforcing the values of justice and integrity within the public service.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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