Tinubu, Atiku, govs urge unity at Eid-el-Kabir

As Muslims celebrate the Eid-el-Kabir festival today, President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and some state governors have congratulated them, urging them to imbibe sacrifice and pray for the national unity and peaceful co-existence of the country.

Recall that the Federal Government had announced Monday and Tuesday as public holidays in observance of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

President Tinubu also departed Abuja on Friday to celebrate the Sallah holidays with his family and friends in Lagos, his home state.

But in a statement released on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu noted that Eid-el-Kabir symbolises sacrifice, faith, and adherence to the will of the Almighty.

The President congratulated the Muslims and prayed for Allah to accept their prayers and acts of devotion.

The statement read in part “The President emphasises that sacrifice and duty are essential ingredients to nation-building, noting that it takes collective purpose, will, and action to bring about great change.

“President Tinubu calls on citizens to spare a prayer for the nation for continuous peace and stability while working according to purpose in promoting unity, peace, and progress.

“The President acknowledges the sacrifices that Nigerians have made in the past year as his administration sets the nation on a firm pedestal of growth and development.

“President Tinubu affirms that the sacrifices and great expectations of citizens will not come to naught as already propitious outcomes are beginning to manifest with the economy strengthening and vibrancy returning to critical sectors,” the statement added.

He reassured Nigerians that his administration is prioritising their physical, social, and economic security and will remain steadfast in this important effort.

Similarly, Atiku also congratulated the Muslim faithful on the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, describing it as “a celebration of God’s love and mercy to mankind.”

In a statement issued by his media office on Saturday, the former Vice President emphasised that Eid, according to the scriptures, is not just about festivities but about practicing patience and showing compassion in all circumstances.

He stated, “The message of Eid al-Adha is to remind ourselves about the commandment of God to show love to one another and uphold peaceful interpersonal relationships.

“The essential purpose of that message is that we must put our trust in God almighty at all times.

“Even in the face of current hard times that many Nigerians are passing through, we must never fail to trust God and, more importantly, extend compassion and safety to the vulnerable people around us.

“What this means is that as we celebrate today, we must ensure that we extend good tidings of support and charity to one another, especially those in difficulties,” he added.