Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo and the 15th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, have described the annual Eid-al-Adha celebration as a sacred season of faith, sacrifice, obedience and compassion.
They urged Muslims and all Nigerians to continue to pray for peace, unity and progress in the country.
Okpebholo, represented by his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, stated this during the annual Eid-al-Adha celebration with Muslim faithful held at Government House in Benin City.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to fairness, inclusivity and equal opportunities for all citizens irrespective of religion and tribe.
According to him, the present administration remains determined to build a government that reflects the diversity of Edo State, noting that competent and qualified Muslims have continued to play vital roles in his government because of their capacity, integrity and commitment to service.
He stated, “As a government, we remain committed to fairness, inclusivity and equal opportunity for every Edo citizen, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or political affiliation. This is why quality and competent Muslims are serving in key positions in our administration.”
Okpebholo appreciated the Muslim community in the state for their unwavering support and continuous prayers for his administration, noting that such prayers and support have contributed immensely to the peace and steady development being witnessed across the state.
He then called on all Nigerians to use the occasion of Eid-al-Adha to pray for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressing that the country needs collective prayers, unity and cooperation to overcome its present economic and security challenges.
He said, “I urge all Muslims and indeed all Nigerians to use this occasion to pray for our dear nation and for the administration of President Bola Tinubu. Nigeria needs our collective prayers, unity and support as we strive to overcome our challenges and build a more prosperous future for all.”
Speaking earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, commended Governor Okpebholo for his support and goodwill towards the Muslim community in Edo State.
He described the governor as a leader who has consistently demonstrated love, fairness and inclusiveness in governance, adding that Muslims in the state remain grateful for the opportunities and recognition accorded by the present administration.
He noted that Okpebholo has continued to serve as a source of hope and joy to the Muslim faithful through his policies and appointments, assuring him of the community’s continued loyalty and support.
In his remarks, the Chief Imam of Edo State, Abdulfatai Enabulele, applauded the governor for what he described as remarkable developmental strides recorded in less than two years in office.
The cleric commended the administration for ongoing infrastructural development and efforts geared towards improving governance in the state, but appealed to the government to revisit and complete some abandoned projects inherited from the previous administration for the benefit of the people.
On his part, Bayero called on Nigerian pilgrims currently performing the 2026 Hajj in Saudi Arabia to pray for lasting peace, unity, and economic growth and development in Kano State and Nigeria.
The monarch made the appeal on Wednesday in his Sallah message delivered at the Nasarawa mini Palace shortly after observing the Eid-el-Kabir prayer.
“We thank Almighty Allah for giving us the opportunity to witness this special day and celebrate another Eid-el-Kabir,” the Emir said.
While speaking on the importance of sacrifice during Eid-el-Kabir, Emir Bayero urged wealthy Muslims to support the less privileged by sharing meat from their sacrificial animals.
“Those blessed with the opportunity to slaughter animals should ensure that they give part of the meat to needy people in society,” he said.
He also prayed for those unable to perform the sacrifice this year, saying, “May Almighty Allah give them the chance to do so next year.”
The Emir further appealed to Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia to remember Kano State and the country in their prayers.
“We urge our pilgrims in Makkah to pray for Kano and Nigeria to continue to enjoy sustainable peace and economic progress. May Allah bring them back home safely,” he added.
On 2027 general elections, the traditional ruler urged citizens to elect leaders with integrity and competence.
“As the 2027 elections approach, people should vote for leaders they are confident will provide good leadership,” he said.
He also encouraged Nigerians to actively participate in the electoral process by exercising their constitutional rights through voting.
On security and social issues, Emir Bayero expressed concern over the growing cases of drug abuse and thuggery among youths in the state.
He advised parents to closely monitor their children to prevent involvement in drugs and criminal activities.
The Emir also directed district heads to promptly report any issue capable of threatening peace within their communities to security agencies for prompt response.
He commended security agencies, especially the Commissioner of Police, for their efforts in maintaining law and order across the State.
The Emir equally praised the Kano State Government for ongoing developmental projects in the state.
“We appreciate the Kano State Government for the development projects being executed across the state, including the installation of street lights, construction of roads, bridges, and other infrastructural projects,” he said.
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