Governor of the State of Osun, Adegboyega Oyetola, has rejoiced with Muslims in the State and across the world on the occasion of the 1442 AH Eid-el-Kabir festival, urging them not to forget the symbolic significance of the celebration.
This is contained in his Eid-el-Kabir message to Muslim faithful.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ismail Omipidan, on Monday, the governor encouraged the Muslim faithful to take cognisance of the symbolic significance of the festival and imbibe the lessons of obedience and sacrifice as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim.
Oyetola also called on the worshippers and all Nigerians to use the celebration to pray to Allah to save the country from the resurgent COVID-19 pandemic, insecurity and other challenges facing the nation, just as he emphasised the need for unity, love, tolerance and peaceful co-existence among people in the State and Nigerians in general.
“In the spirit of Eid-el-Kabir celebration, I enjoin us all to respect our differences in terms of religion, tribe or political affiliation, and embrace love, unity, tolerance and peaceful co-existence. In diversity lies our strength, ” Oyetola said.
While wishing Muslims happy Sallah celebration, the governor reminded them that COVID-19 is still here with us and appealed to them to comply strictly with the safety protocols as they celebrate.
He said: “As we mark the Eid-el-Kabir festival, let’s be mindful that the pandemic is still here with us. We must therefore abide by all safety protocols as we celebrate. While the State Government has allowed for praying grounds to be opened, we must ensure that the prayers are observed in strict compliance with COVID-19 safety guidelines.”