Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has congratulated the Muslim Ummah for witnessing this year’s Eid -el -Kabir festival, Ekiti News reports.
In a goodwill message signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, the Governor urged Muslims as they celebrate to imbibe the lessons of love and sacrifice that the season symbolizes.
Governor Oyebanji charged them on the need to reflect on the significance of the sacrifice epitomized by the festival as well as promote the virtues of Islam.
He 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.
The Governor 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.
The Governor 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 he would not take for granted.
The Governor 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.
Governor Oyebanji 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.
The Governor 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”, the statement added.