By Nudoiba Ojen
The governors of Ogun, Ekiti and Ondo states, Prince Dapo Abiodun, Mr Biodun Oyebanji and Hon Lucky Ayedatiwa respectively have congratulated Muslims in their states and the country in general on the celebration of Eid-El-Fitr, which marks the completion of the Ramadan fast.
The governors preached peace, love, unity, understanding and sacrifice on the part of Muslims and all Nigerians as they canvassed prayers for Nigeria to overcome its present challenges.
* Abiodun: Let’s uphold core values of humanity, respect, harmonious co-existence
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has admonished Nigerians to have hope for a better Nigeria with prayers from both Christian and Muslim faithful.
The governor praised the peaceful co-existence among the various religious bodies in the state, which has paved the way for the seamless governance in the Gateway State.
Governor Abiodun, in a statement to mark the Eid-el-Fitri (end of Ramadan), assured that with the various interventions by both the federal and state governments, Nigerians would soon come out of their current economic predicaments.
The governor recalled the various interventions his administration has made since the economic challenges began, including the latest distribution of food palliatives and the ‘Educash’ transfers, which, he said, were aimed at lessening the burden on the citizens of the state.
Prince Abiodun acknowledged the support of religious bodies to the success of his administration, even as he preached love, understanding, unity, and peaceful co-existence among the people of the state.
He called on Muslims to let the lessons of the holy month of Ramadan, including patience, self-discipline, love for one another and kindness, guide their daily lives.
“Let us take a moment to reflect on the lessons learnt throughout the holy month of Ramadan and allow the spirit of Eid to guide our actions towards compassion, kindness, and understanding. Together, may we continue to build a thriving community where everyone feels valued and included.
“As we rejoice in this festive period, let us also remember to uphold the core values of humanity, respect, and harmonious co-existence that define our great state. By embracing these ideals, we can forge a better future for all.”
*Oyebanji: Ramadan season of sacrifice and time to seek Allah’s face
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, congratulated Muslims on the celebration of Eid – El- Fitr and urged them to see Ramadan as a season of sacrifice and a time to seek the face of Allah.
Oyebanji, in his goodwill
Message signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Olayinka Oyebode, said, “The holy month of Ramadan symbolizes love, self-denial and sacrifice and as such, Muslims must sacrifice all their personal interests to seek truth and justice as the holy Quran teaches”.
He noted that Ramadan which is one of the five pillars of the Islamic faith has brought Muslims closer to Allah during the Holy month, calling on them to sustain the piety and spiritual rejuvenation achieved during the period.
While urging Muslims to use the Eid-el-Fitr to pray for Nigeria to overcome her current challenges, Oyebanji said it is only when peace reigns that Muslims and adherents of other religions can contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of the country.
The governor, who a few days ago, hosted an Iftar for Muslim leaders in the state, equally hailed Muslims in Ekiti State for their understanding and unflinching support for his administration through their prayers, timely counsel and robust participation.
He urged them not to relent in their contribution to the religious harmony, peace and progress being enjoyed in the State.
He also urged adherents of all religions in the state to join the government in promoting peace and orderliness as well as in restoring the core values of honesty, excellence, honour, hard work for which Ekiti State is renowned.
“On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I congratulate the Muslim Ummah on the Eid-el- Fitri celebration, and pray that Almighty Allah will accept our prayers, grant all our heart desires and preserve our lives to witness many more celebrations.”, the governor added.
* Aiyedatiwa: Rekindle commitment to unity, love
The Governor of Ondo State, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, congratulates the Muslim community in Ondo State as they celebrate Eid-el-fitr and implores them to rekindle their commitment to unity and love for fellow residents.
Aiyedatiwa, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, prayed that “this year’s Eid will bring blessings, peace and prosperity for all Muslim faithful”.
The governor expressed optimism of a sustained peaceful coexistence in Ondo State.
He stated, “As the crescent moon appears, bringing to an end the holy month of Ramadan, I rejoice with our Muslim brothers and sisters on this year’s Eid-el-fitr and urge them to also use this celebration to reflect on the lessons of Ramadan.
“As we celebrate with you, may Allah shower His countless blessings upon you and your loved ones.
“Happy Eid-el-fitr celebration”, Aiyedatiwa said.
While thanking Muslim clerics and leaders across the State for their support and prayers for the state, he promises to continue to provide conducive environment for religious harmony in the state.