As Muslims prepare for this year’s Ramadan, the Etsu Nupe and chairman of Niger State Traditional Council, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, has cautioned traders in the country against arbitrary hike in prices of foodstuff and other commodities.
The monarch who gave the advice while speaking to journalists at the weekend stressed the need for traders to be their brothers’ keepers in line with Islamic teachings and injunctions.
He advised them to fear God and conduct their businesses in consonance with Islamic injunctions and assist their neighbours.
“Those who may be thinking of hiking the prices of their goods during Ramadan should know fully well of its consequences before Almighty Allah on the day of judgment.
“This sacred period is a time to seek God’s face through fasting and good deeds,” he added, while also appealing to wealthy individuals, corporate organisations and groups to come to the aid of the less privileged as acts of charity are greatly encouraged during the holy month.
“People should use their God-given wealth to assist the poor and widows; this will go a long way to alleviate their sufferings,” the royal father added.
The Etsu Nupe said such gesture would go a long way in cushioning the effect of fasting on the people with rewards of the holy month.