The lead Imam of the Lagos State House of Assembly Muslim community, Imam Shakiru Osoala, has urged Muslims nationwide to embrace peace, unity and harmonious coexistence during Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
Osoala made the appeal in a goodwill message issued in Lagos on Tuesday to commemorate the Islamic festival.
Eid-el-Kabir commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah before a ram was divinely provided instead.
Osoala urged Muslims to reflect on the festival’s spiritual lessons of sacrifice, obedience, faith, love and total submission to Allah.
He described Eid-el-Kabir as one of Islam’s most significant celebrations, honouring Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering devotion and obedience to Allah.
According to him, the occasion should strengthen brotherhood, encourage compassion and promote peaceful coexistence within communities.
“Eid-el-Kabir teaches us the values of sacrifice, tolerance, generosity and love for humanity.
“As we celebrate, Muslims should uphold peaceful coexistence, support the less privileged and foster unity beyond ethnic, religious or political differences,” he said.
The Imam urged Muslims to pray for peace, stability and progress in Lagos State and across Nigeria during the celebrations.
He stressed the need for residents to maintain law and order and celebrate responsibly throughout the festive period.
Osoala also encouraged individuals and organisations to support vulnerable people through charity, food distribution and other humanitarian gestures.
He prayed for the success of President Bola Tinubu, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Lagos Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa.
The Imam wished Muslims a joyful and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir, urging them to sustain the virtues of peace, sacrifice and compassion after the festivities.