As Muslims around the world celebrate Eid-el-Fitri, which marks the end of Ramadan fasting, President Goodluck Jonathan called on Nigerians Saturday to portray love, honesty and piety in dealing with one another as taught by the Prophet Mohammed.
He also called on Nigerians to be tolerant with one another and to co-exist in peace and show a dedication to duty that will benefit the nation.
“I felicitate with all Nigerians, especially our Muslim brothers and sisters on the auspicious occasion of this year’s Eid-el-Fitri celebrations.
“I congratulate all of our countrymen and women who have successfully undertaken the purifying Ramadan fast.
“May the lessons and blessings of the Holy Month also permeate into us all, and positively influence our attitudes towards our fellow countrymen and women, irrespective of their religion or places of origin; and promote greater commitment to the peace, unity and stability of the nation,” he said in a statement signed by his Senior Special Adviser on Media, Reuben Abati.
Mr Jonathan also commiserated with those affected by the attacks of Boko Haram insurgents during the Ramadan month, adding that they should not let their spirit and belief in the Nigeria be dampened.
“Although the observance of the Holy Month was sadly tainted in parts of the country with the continuing atrocities of extremists and terrorists in our midst, I urge all patriotic Nigerians to remain strong and resolute in defence of freedom, unity, law and order, peace, security and progress of the nation.
“I feel the pains and anguish of all our compatriots who have experienced the harrowing impact of terrorism unleashed on them by brainwashed and misguided agents of evil and disunity, but we must never throw up our hands in helplessness and despair as the terrorists and purveyors of anarchy want.”
He asked Nigerians to support men of the armed forces fighting to end the insurgency while reiterating the government’s commitment to stamp out terrorism.
In similar vein, the Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, congratulated Muslims on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast. He also urged Muslims to draw from the lessons learnt during the holy month in their dealing with one another and with Allah.
Expressing worry at the precarious security situation in the country, Mr Fayemi calls on Muslims and Nigerians as a whole to seek the face of God in the affair of the country.
While condemning the spate of terror attacks in the country, Mr Fayemi advises Nigerians to be vigilant and conscious of their environments even as they celebrate.
“This is the time we all need to come together to tackle insecurity in the country even as we pray for God’s protection over the land”, he said.
He particular condemns the killings of innocent people this week in Kaduna and Kano and prayed for the peace repose of their souls.
