Former governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, has congratulated Muslim faithful nationwide on the festival of Eid al-Adha, while urging other Nigerians to be charitable.
Eid al-Adha, a major holiday in the Islamic calendar, is the commemoration of the Quranic tale of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to God.
In a statement on Wednesday, Obiano sent his best wishes to Muslim communities in Nigeria, stating that the festival is one of sacrifice and unity.
He said: “Eid al-Adha is celebrated to commemorate the devotion of Ibrahim and Ismail. The season symbolises celebration, faith and charity. As the pillars of Islam encourage unity, I use the occasion to urge Nigerian Muslims to be steadfast in working and praying for the peace, unity and progress of our beloved country.
“Nigeria is confronted with difficulties. The present challenges are problematic. However, this is a passing stage in our course of national development. Regardless, Nigerians have kept the tenets of their faith and have continued trudging forward, with renewed hope. We are a resilient people that can overcome anything, with unity.”
According to him, charity is the act of giving money, goods or food materials to the unfortunate, either directly or indirectly.
“The feast is also a time to serve the less fortunate, a reminder of the obligations that people of all faiths have to one another,” he added.
The erstwhile governor stated that Nigeria’s economic growth was beginning to gather momentum, but that unity, patriotism and prayers were required to take the country to the next level. He urged Nigerians to constantly seek to become a better version of themselves through patriotism, dedication to duty and honesty.
Eid-al-Adha’s significance, Obiano added, revolves around the profitability of being patient with God in all things, including the country’s growth.
“My warmest wishes go out to all Muslims on this festival of Eid al-Adha. On this occasion, may Allah fill your life with joy, your heart with love, your soul with happiness and your mind with wisdom. Wishing you a very happy Eid,” he said.
