The Chairman, Forum 68 and immediate past ALGON Chairman in Oyo State,Prince Ayodeji Abass-Aleshinloye (MDII) has called on Muslims to embrace the virtues of sacrifice, love, faith and unity as they celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.
In a statement on Tuesday, Abass-Aleshinloye said the celebration was a clarion call for Nigerians to imbibe the lessons of the season such as sacrifice, sincere commitment to righteous conduct as well as selfless service to God and humanity.
He said the significance of the season should be beyond merriment, adding that Muslims should reflect on the religious relevance of the season of sacrifice, faith in Allah, righteousness and self-discipline.
The Forum 68 chairman also called on Nigerians to shun any act capable of heating up the polity or causing distrust among ethnic and religious groups.
“We are all members of one nation and in spite of our diversity, we are bound by a common humanity.
“As we celebrate this auspicious occasion, let us renew our faith in our nation, implore the Almighty Allah to restore to us our great values, remember the poor and less privileged people in our midst and extend a hand of love and support to them.
“We pray for values that place high premium on human life, neighbourliness and love as we reaffirm our faith in the unity of our dear country.
“This period requires more patience, tolerance, endurance, patriotism and greater willingness to make personal sacrifices for the good of all while calling on government at all levels to be more responsible in providing good governance for the people,” Abass-Aleshinloye said.
He also advised Nigerians to take responsibility against the spread of the third wave of COVID-19 and adhere strictly to all protocols prescribed by relevant authorities.
The former ALGON chairman wished all Muslims a peaceful celebration, calling for fervent prayers against insecurity, instability and the COVID-19 pandemic.
