By Ayodele Oni
As Muslims celebrate Eid-el Kabir on Sunday, Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated the Muslim Ummah for witnessing this year’s Eid -el -Kabir festival.
The Governor, in a goodwill message, signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, charged the celebrants to imbibe the lessons of love and sacrifice which the season symbolizes as they celebrate.
He urged them on the need to reflect on the significance of the sacrifice epitomized by the festival as well as promote the virtues of Islam.
The Governor urged the faithful to learn from Prophet Ibrahim who surrendered to the will of the Almighty Allah by sacrificing his son Ishmael based on Allah’s injunction.
He said Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience, which was a test of faith, turned what was thought to be a loss to a great gain noting that sacrifices, when done in good faith, produces positive results.
Oyebanji, who expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome its current challenges, urged Nigerians not to relent in their prayers for the country at this critical time in its history.
He appreciated the Muslim Community in the state for the support given to his administration through prayer, counsels and solidarity, which he said would not be taken for granted.
He also thanked them for living in peace and harmony with other adherents of other religions, thereby making the state one of the most peaceful states to live and work.
The Governor promised to continue to carry the Muslim Community along as he does with other stakeholders in the bid to make Ekiti an enviable state in key sectors and a land of shared prosperity where everyone can find fulfilment.
He urged the Muslim pilgrims performing this year’s Hajj to use the opportunity of their presence in the holy land to pray for peace, progress and prosperity of the state and Nigeria as a whole.
“As we celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, it is my sincere wish that we celebrate in moderation, reflect on the lessons of the Eid-el-Kabir festival, show love to one another, work and pray for the greater level of prosperity for our dear state and country. May God accept our worship as an act of ‘Ibadah. Happy Sallah”.
