Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has urged Muslim faithful to pray for Nigeria to overcome her challenges as they celebrate Eid-el-Kabir festival.
The governor who congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the occasion of this year’s Sallah enjoined them to pray for the peace, progress, prosperity and development of Ekiti State under his leadership, describing Muslims as important stakeholders in his administration.
Oyebanji urged Nigerians to pray for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to succeed in the task of repositioning the country for the benefit of Nigerians described Eid-el-Kabir as a time to appreciate the Almighty Allah for his mercies and benevolence.
The governor, in a statement issued by his special adviser on media, Yinka Oyebode, said the lessons of sacrifice and total submission to the will of the almighty Allah should continue to resonate in the lives of the faithful and guide them in their relationship with the Creator and fellow human beings.
He said the defining moment in the story of Eid-el-Kabir was the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ishmael in deference to the wish of the almighty Allah who was testing his faith.
The governor said Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience was rewarded by God who provided a ram that was offered in place of Ishmael which was the essence of Eid-el-Kabir.
He urged the Muslim faithful to emulate the faithfulness, sacrifice, piety and patience which was exhibited by Prophet Ibrahim as well as the humility and submission to the will of Allah by his son, Ishmael.
While commending Muslim leaders and clerics in the state for their support and prayers for his administration which he noted have contributed to the successes so far recorded by the government, he appreciated the people for the harmonious relationship that exists among adherents of the major religions.
“I congratulate the Muslim Ummah for witnessing this year’s Eid-el -Kabir festival. Let us remember our neighbors, our brothers and sisters, especially the less privileged.”
