Victor EzejaAs Muslims all over the world mark Eid-el-Kabir, former vice president of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has urged the citizens to reflect on the state of the country with regard to the current security challenges, economic hardship, “pervasive” disunity among the people and the way forward.
Atiku who is the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2023 election, in his Salah message on Saturday, expressed his felicitation with Muslims across the world.
He reminded them that the occasion of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration is about selfless sacrifice and communal love, as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim and his son, Ishmael, which should guide them especially in the quest for peaceful coexistence both in the country and the world at large.
He said, “The purpose of the celebration has a bold reflection on Nigeria. Our country is broken, and insecurity has become a daily menace staring all our compatriots in the face.
“The hardships in the land and the harrowing experiences that people go through to survive, and the pervasive lack of unity amongst Nigerians, are the reasons we must do a sober reflection on the state of our Nation as we mark this year’s Sallah.
“Therefore, selfless sacrifice and communal love, as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim and his son, Ishmael, should guide us as we submit ourselves and needs to the Will of Allah.
“If we emulate the righteousness and great virtues of the Holy Prophet, mankind shall no doubt receive the reward of Allah’s love and mercy.”
He urged the privileged and wealthy individuals in the society to step up their acts of charity to the less privileged ones as a way of sharing love to lessen the hardship and burdens facing their neighbours.
Atiku also charged the government at all levels to play their constitutional roles and prioritise the needs of the people they were elected to serve.
“The unity, security and development of our country is sacrosanct.
“The expression of love and sacrifice symbolised by the Eid-el-Kabir celebration has a strong effect in the relationship between the government and the governed. It is incumbent on the government to optimally discharge its responsibilities to the people. It is only when this is done that there can be love between the government and the governed.”
He also urged the citizens to take lessons from the Eid-el-Kabir celebration by being up and doing in their civic responsibilities, part of which is ensuring that they register, obtain their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) and cast their votes during elections.
“Above all, I pray for peace during and after the Eid celebration even as I task Nigerians to work even harder to ensure the unity of all peoples, tribes and faiths in the country,” the PDP presidential flag bearer added.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
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