As Muslims across Nigeria join the global community in celebrating Eid-el-Fitr, prominent leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly leadership, state governors, and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, have emphasized unity and called for prayers. Meanwhile, security agencies have heightened surveillance to ensure a peaceful celebration.
Tinubu, Akpabio, and Sultan Call for Unity and Prayers
Speaking at the Eid Prayer Ground in Abuja, President Tinubu expressed gratitude for completing Ramadan successfully and urged Nigerians to uphold the values of compassion and charity.
“We give thanks to Almighty Allah. We saw the beginning of Ramadan. We started together and ended together in good health and happiness,” he said.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio also called for unity, urging Nigerians to uphold the values of generosity and kindness learned during Ramadan. Similarly, the Sultan of Sokoto stressed the importance of national cohesion and encouraged citizens to pray for stability and progress.
Governors Urge Continued Reflection on Ramadan Lessons
Governors from across Nigeria echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing peace, tolerance, and sustained acts of charity.
- Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, reminded citizens that worship extends beyond Ramadan and called for continuous prayers for national stability.
- Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, urged Muslims to sustain the virtues of compassion and unity.
- Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, highlighted the spirit of generosity, calling Ramadan a period of selfless giving.
- Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, emphasized prayers for the state’s peace and development, urging citizens to support one another.
- Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, cautioned against turning Eid into a mere festivity, urging Nigerians to use the period for self-reflection and national prayers.
Security Agencies Strengthen Nationwide Surveillance
In response to potential security threats, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, announced heightened security deployments across the country. Officers have been stationed at strategic locations, including Eid prayer grounds, recreational centers, and public spaces.
“The IGP has directed security agencies to intensify intelligence-led patrols, surveillance operations, and stop-and-search duties to forestall any security threats,” a police statement read.
State police commands have also ramped up security:
- Benue Police Command deployed officers to prayer grounds, markets, and motor parks to prevent disruptions.
- Gombe State Command increased police presence, surveillance, and traffic management operations.
- Sokoto State Command confirmed the deployment of 927 officers for a hitch-free celebration.
- Kaduna State Command heightened patrols across all major gathering spots.
Political and Religious Leaders Urge National Reconciliation
Beyond security, political and religious leaders used the occasion to advocate for unity, economic resilience, and tolerance.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) praised Muslim faithful for their devotion during Ramadan and encouraged them to continue upholding Islamic virtues. Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) called for justice and accountability in governance, emphasizing the need for national reconciliation.
Former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi urged Nigerians to embrace diversity and reject divisive narratives, stressing that unity remains the country’s greatest strength.
Conclusion
As Nigeria marks Eid-el-Fitr, leaders across the nation have reinforced the need for unity, compassion, and continued prayers for peace. With enhanced security measures in place, the celebrations are expected to be peaceful, reflecting the spirit of Ramadan and national solidarity.