Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has called on Muslims in Ondo State and across Nigeria to use the Eid-el-Kabir celebration as an opportunity to pray for peace, unity and national progress amid the country’s social and economic challenges.
The governor made the appeal in a goodwill message issued on Tuesday to commemorate this year’s Eid-el-Adha celebration, urging residents to uphold the values of sacrifice, tolerance and compassion associated with the Islamic festival.
In the personally signed statement, Aiyedatiwa congratulated Muslim faithful on the celebration and stressed the need for continued religious harmony and peaceful coexistence in the state.
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“On behalf of the Government and good people of Ondo State, I extend my warmest felicitations to you as you celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Adha,” the governor stated.
He described Eid-el-Kabir as a reminder of the unwavering faith and obedience demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim, saying the occasion carries lessons that remain relevant to national development and peaceful living.
“The Eid-el-Kabir, the Festival of Sacrifice, reminds us of Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith, obedience, and willingness to submit to the will of Allah,” he said.
“It is a season that calls us to embody the virtues of sacrifice, charity, tolerance, and love for one another, regardless of religion or background.”
Aiyedatiwa’s message comes at a time when political leaders across Nigeria are using the Sallah celebration to preach national unity and encourage citizens facing rising living costs and economic pressure.
The governor assured residents that his administration remained committed to maintaining peace and strengthening interfaith harmony across Ondo State.
“As an administration, we remain committed to fostering peace, unity, and religious harmony across Ondo State,” he stated.
He also urged Muslims to remember the less privileged during the celebration by extending acts of generosity and support to vulnerable members of society.
“I urge you to use this celebration to pray for the continued peace and progress of our dear state and Nigeria at large, and to extend a hand of generosity to the less privileged around you.”
The governor advised residents to celebrate responsibly and maintain the peaceful atmosphere for which Ondo State is known.
According to him, moderation, security consciousness and mutual respect remain essential during festive periods, especially as many families travel and gather for celebrations across the country.
He further encouraged residents to observe safety precautions during the festivities to avoid preventable incidents.
The Eid-el-Kabir festival, one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command before divine intervention replaced the sacrifice with a ram.
Across Nigeria, Muslims traditionally mark the festival with prayers, animal sacrifice, charity and visits to family members and neighbours.
Religious leaders have also continued to urge Nigerians to use the occasion to promote peaceful coexistence and support efforts aimed at national stability.
Concluding his message, Aiyedatiwa prayed for divine blessings upon Muslim faithful and their families.
“May Almighty Allah accept your prayers, sacrifices, and good deeds, and grant you and your families abundant blessings, good health, and prosperity. Eid Mubarak! Taqabbalallahu minna wa minkum,” the governor added.
