Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated the Muslim Ummah in the state and across the country on the celebration of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir.
In a goodwill message signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, the governor described Eid-el-Kabir as a significant festival of sacrifice, obedience, and joy for Muslims.
Oyebanji commended Muslims for witnessing another Eid celebration, noting that the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience to Allah’s command, and the substitution of his son Ishmael with a ram, symbolises the reward that comes with sacrifice.
According to him, “Sacrifice is usually the price to pay for victory, fulfilment, success, profit and joy.”
He urged the Muslim faithful to embrace the core teachings of the season by submitting totally to the will of Almighty Allah, adding that such devotion attracts divine blessings.
The governor also called for continued peaceful coexistence among Muslims and adherents of other religions in Ekiti, emphasising love, unity, and brotherhood as critical to societal harmony.
He identified the Muslim community as a strong partner in the state’s development and called for collective efforts towards building a better Ekiti.
Oyebanji appealed to Muslims to sustain their support for his administration and that of President Bola Tinubu through prayers, expressing optimism for a brighter future.
He further encouraged moderation in celebration and urged Muslims to show love to their neighbours, particularly the less privileged, in line with Islamic teachings.
“We wish the Muslim Ummah in our dear state and in Nigeria a happy Sallah and pray that God accepts our sacrifices as an act of Ibadah,” the statement added.