Eminent Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu, the leadership of the National Assembly, governors, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, among others, have preached unity and called for prayers as Muslims mark the end of the Ramadan fasting.
Muslims in Nigeria, on Sunday, joined their counterparts across the globe to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of the Ramadan fasting.
This comes as the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, heightened security measures nationwide to ensure peaceful and hitch-free Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. Egbetokun said the NPF had deployed officers to strategic locations, including Eid prayer grounds, recreational centres, and other public spaces, to strengthen security.
Speaking on Sunday at the Eid Prayer Ground in Abuja, the President said, “We give thanks to Almighty Allah. We saw the beginning of Ramadan. We started together and ended together in good health and happiness.
“We said prayers for our country and all our people; we should continue the good deeds as taught by the holy month of Ramadan, care for the vulnerable, the orphans, and the less privileged; everything that we have observed, we should not revert to the path that is not acceptable with the teaching of this month. That’s what I pray for.”
At the National Eid Prayer Ground along the Airport Road, Tinubu joined fellow Muslims to observe the Eid-el-Fitr prayers marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
The President, who arrived minutes before 9am, was received by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, hailed the Muslim faithful on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitri, as he urged them to pray for the unity of the country.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, in Abuja, Akpabio appealed to the Muslim faithful to pray and work for the unity of the country.
“As you celebrate the end of Ramadan and mark the occasion of Eid-el-Fitri, I send you my warmest felicitations on behalf of my family, constituents, the 10th Senate and the entire National Assembly.
“May this joyous occasion bring you peace, happiness, and spiritual renewal. May the blessings of Allah be upon you and your loved ones. As we celebrate, let us remember the values of compassion, kindness, and generosity that define the spirit of Ramadan,” he said.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar, called on Nigerians to remain united, offer prayers, and support their leaders in fostering national growth and development.
Speaking on Sunday at his palace, shortly after the Eid-El-Fitr prayers, the Sultan said, “As a nation, we must continue to pray for peace, stability, and the well-being of our leaders. Without unity and support, meaningful progress becomes difficult.
The Sultan urged citizens to pray fervently for the nation’s stability, as he commended security forces for their efforts.
“Our leaders are trying their best, and while we must hold them accountable, it should be done with respect and sincerity, not baseless condemnation,” he added.
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, reminded Muslims of the teachings of the Quran and Hadith, which emphasised peace, love, discipline, and humility.
He pointed out that the worship of Allah is not limited to Ramadan but is a lifelong commitment.
The governor called on Muslims to use the period to also pray for enduring peace in Nigeria as a whole and Niger State in particular, as well as all the leaders to continue to serve humanity selflessly.
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, urged Muslims to sustain the lessons and virtues learnt during Ramadan, including compassion, tolerance, and unity.
“I urge Muslims to sustain the lessons and virtues learnt during Ramadan, including compassion, tolerance, and unity, and to continue to live in peace and harmony with their fellow citizens of all faiths,” the statement read.
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, in his goodwill message on Sunday, said, “Ramadan is a time when hearts are softened, generosity overflows and acts of kindness illuminate the path of the less privileged in our society.
“It reminds us that true wealth is not in material possessions but in the compassion and love we extend to one another.”
His Enugu State counterpart, Peter Mbah, added, “I congratulate our Muslim brethren on the successful journey of faith, sacrifice, and charity throughout the holy month of Ramadan and rejoice with them on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr.
“It is my prayer that the virtues of faith, peace, love, mercy, tolerance, and sacrifice imbibed during the Ramadan fasting shall continue to enrich and underline our individual lives and bonding as one people.”
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, in a state-wide broadcast lamented that the challenges of insecurity over the years, particularly the menace of banditry.
He, however, maintained that his administration was working to restore peace and allow people to go about their normal businesses unhindered.
“Our administration remains fully committed to restoring security and ensuring that every citizen can live without fear,” he said.
Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, in his Eid-el-Fitr in a statement made available to newsmen in the state by his Chief Press Secretary, Ahmed Idris, said, “Fasting in the month of Ramadan is not only restricted to abstinence from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual intercourse, but it also entails being modest, humble, and exhibiting good character.
“As Muslims, we need to put into practice the lessons we have learnt from this holy month by being kind to one another, tolerating, accommodating, and extending hands of fellowship to the orphans, less privileged, downtrodden and vulnerable members of the society,” the governor stated.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, urged the Islamic faithful in the state to continue to embody the virtues of patience, love, compassion, and self-discipline cultivated during Ramadan.
He said, “I urge you to continue to embody the virtues of patience, love, compassion, and self-discipline cultivated during Ramadan.
“As we celebrate this season with you, may Allah shower His countless blessings upon you and your loved ones. Happy Eid-el-Fitr celebration.”
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State appealed for prayers for the state’s continued peace, progress, and development, acknowledging the challenges faced by the state and its people.
“Eid-el-Fitr is a time for increased charity and generosity, sharing food, love, time, and respect with the poor and needy.
“As we celebrate with family, friends, and neighbours, please spare a thought for our dear state and pray for continued peace, progress, and development,” he said on his Facebook page.
Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, speaking at the Muhammad Buhari Square, Lokoja, where he prayed to mark the end of the Ramadan fast, charged Muslims to continue to reflect on the lessons of compassion, peace and progress learnt during the period in the interest of development.
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, in a press release issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, noted that the Eid-el-Fitr should not only be turned into a mere holiday defined by pomp and pageantry but should be used as an occasion to atone for shortcomings and resolve to take corrective measures.
“We should also pray to Almighty Allah for peace, unity and prosperity of our dear state and the country as a whole,” he added.
The PUNCH reports that the governor, alongside top government officials in the state, performed Eid-el-Fitr in Saudi Arabia on a lesser Hajj.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya, in his goodwill message signed by the Director-General of Press Affairs, Gombe Government House, Ismaila Misilli, urged the Muslim faithful to carry forward the spiritual lessons and values learned during Ramadan into their daily lives.
Governor Douye Diri, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Daniel Alabrah, urged adherents of the Islamic faith not to relent in their prayers for the peace, progress and prosperity of Bayelsa State and Nigeria.
“We are committed to promoting peaceful co-existence between and among adherents of the different faiths to build a prosperous state for everyone to realise their dreams,” he promised.
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, in his goodwill message signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, urged the Muslims and adherents of other religions “to continue to live in love, peace and harmony with one another as brothers and sisters.”
The governor urged adherents of all religions in the state to join the government in promoting the peace and orderliness necessary for sustainable growth and development.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, in a goodwill message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Festus Ahon, stressed the significance of Eid-el-Fitr as a time of thanksgiving, compassion, and unity among Muslims and the entire society.
“As you mark this auspicious occasion, I urge you all to reflect on the lessons of Ramadan and continue to uphold the values of patience, sacrifice, and mutual understanding,” the governor stated
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State stated, “I acknowledge the fact that your prayers and charitable giving (Sadaqah) in the past month have been made against the backdrop of various national challenges and, with your continued support, I believe that the challenges will be surmounted.
“There is no doubt that we shall witness the divine dividends of your prayers going forward,” he said.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Olamilekan Adeola, in his congratulatory message, urged the Muslims to remain guided by the spiritual lessons of Ramadan and the injunctions of Holy Prophets on self-denial, love, peaceful co-existence, fairness and justice even after the holy month.
The lawmaker representing Ogun West Senatorial District of Ogun State said, “Let us continue to renew our hope for a secure nation and a prosperous future for the citizenry under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.”
The lawmaker representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Lawal Usman, in a statement, urged Muslims to use the occasion to pray for an end to insecurity, hardship, and economic challenges in the country.
Usman stressed the importance of prayer in overcoming the challenges facing the country and called on Muslims to pray for the country’s leaders to be granted the knowledge, wisdom, and willpower to address these challenges.
The ruling All Progressives Congress, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, stated, “We commend our Muslim faithful for their utmost devotion to Almighty Allah expressed in fervent prayers, sacrifice, charity and commitment to peace and unity of our dear country throughout the holy month of Ramadan.
“As we celebrate, we implore our Muslim faithful to continue to exemplify the virtues and essence of Ramadan by sustaining their supplications, sacrifice, generosity, and tolerance as espoused by the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).”
Main opposition party the Peoples Democratic Party urged Nigerians to let the virtues of love, unity, peace, patience, and submission to Allah guide their daily interactions.
“Indeed, the Eid-el-Fitr offers us as a nation and humanity the divine portal to redeem our nation by standing up for justice, strict adherence to the Rule of Law and accountability in the polity,” it stated.
A delegation of the Kwara State Government on Sunday joined the Muslim community to observe the prayers marking the end of Ramadan fast amid prayers for the state and the country.
Held at the Ilorin Central Praying Ground, the prayer was led by the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir-Solihu.
“We urge all Kwarans and Nigerians to imbibe the lessons of Ramadan in the intervening months. We should be our brothers’ keepers, be peaceful in our conduct, and pray for peace and stability of Kwara State and Nigeria at large”, said the majority leader of the state House of Assembly, Abdulkadir, who represented Governor AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq.
The governor, who usually leads the delegation, was away in Saudi Arabia to perform the Lesser Hajj.
The National Leader of Persons with Disabilities in the APC, Tolu Bankole, in a statement, appealed to Muslim ummahs to continue to reflect on the values of love, sacrifice, and devotion they learnt during the holy month.
“Eid Al-Fitr is a time of thanksgiving, reflection, and communal harmony. It is a moment to extend kindness to one another and continue to uphold the virtues of patience, piety, and generosity that the month of Ramadan has taught us,” he stated.
Also, immediate-past Governor of Ekiti State and ex-Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, extended warm greetings to Nigerian Muslims as they celebrate Eid-el-Fitr.
In a statement by the head of the Fayemi Media Office, Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, the former governor said the event should serve as a reminder to Nigerians about our shared humanity and ‘’inspire us to work towards a more just, equitable, and prosperous nation for all.’’
He said, “This joyous occasion provides an opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and commitment to Islam’s values of peace, tolerance, and compassion. As we celebrate Eid-el-Fitr amidst the current socio-economic and political challenges, let us draw inspiration from the spirit of Ramadan and work towards a better future for all Nigerians.
‘’We should strive to cultivate empathy and understanding, to strengthen the bonds that bind us, and to work together to overcome the current challenges that confront us as a nation, remembering that we are all interconnected and that our collective well-being depends on every citizen.
‘’I appeal to us all to embrace unity and reject divisive narratives that seek to divide us. Our diversity is our greatest strength, and our unity is our most powerful weapon against adversity. Regardless of our ethnic, religious, or political differences, we are first and foremost Nigerians,” he said.
Police heighten security
In a statement on Sunday by the Force spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, Egbetokun added that Commissioners of Police, Tactical Commanders, and their supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police have been tasked with strengthening surveillance, intelligence-led patrols, and stop-and-search operations to forestall any potential security threats.
The statement read, “The IGP has also directed heightened security deployments across the country to ensure a peaceful celebration.
In a bid to ensure a safe celebration, Commissioners of Police (CPs), Tactical Commanders, and their supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) have been instructed to strengthen security at Eid prayer grounds, recreational centers, and other public spaces. Additionally, officers have been tasked with conducting intelligence-led patrols, surveillance operations, and strategic stop-and-search duties to forestall any security threats during the festive period.
While urging Nigerians to remain law-abiding and celebrate in an atmosphere of peace and brotherhood, the IGP called on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest security agency.”
The IGP also extended warm felicitations to the Muslim faithful, acknowledging the spiritual significance of Ramadan and urging Nigerians to uphold the values of self-discipline, tolerance, and compassion fostered during the holy month.
He emphasized that these virtues are essential for promoting national unity and peaceful coexistence.
“The Inspector-General of Police NPM, extends warm felicitations to the Muslim Ummah across the country on the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.
“The IGP acknowledges the spiritual significance of this period, urging all Nigerians to sustain the virtues of self-discipline, tolerance, and compassion fostered during Ramadan to promote peaceful coexistence and national unity.”
The IGP, however, urged Nigerians to remain law-abiding and celebrate responsibly, emphasizing the importance of vigilance.
State Commands also intensified efforts to ensure peaceful celebrations.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Benue State Command, Catherine Anene, said the command had deployed police officers across the state to forestall a breakdown of law and order during the Sallah celebrations.
She said, “The CP ordered all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders to provide water tight security within their areas of responsibility, particular prayer grounds, recreational centers, markets, motor parks, and other public places where large gatherings are expected.
“Criminals are thereby warned to desist from perpetuating crime or face the wrath of the law when arrested.”
The Gombe State Police Command announced enhanced security measures to ensure a safe environment during the celebrations.
DSP Buhari Abdullahi, Police Public Relations Officer, Gombe Command said there is a robust security presence across the state, including increased police visibility and patrols, stop and search operations, crowd control measures, surveillance and intelligence gathering, traffic management and collaboration with sister security agencies.
He said, “We urge residents to be security-conscious and adhere to safety guidelines. Citizens are advised to report any suspicious individuals, movements, or objects to the nearest Police Station, security personnel or call emergency hotlines.”
In the same vein, the Sokoto State command confirmed the deployment of 927 policemen within the metropolis to ensure peaceful conduct during this year Sallah celebration.
The spokesman of the command, DSP Ahmed Rufai, confirmed the figure while speaking with our correspondent on telephone on Sunday evening.
“We deployed 927 officers in the state, to ensure peaceful celebration on Sallah day. So far, there is no report of incident in the state.”
Also the Kaduna Command’s PPRO, DSP Mansir Hassan, said the state Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Units to strengthen patrols, surveillance, and intelligence gathering in all parts of the state.
He said the deployments covered all prayer grounds, recreational centres, markets, motor parks, and other public places where large gatherings were expected, noting that “Special attention will also be given to flashpoints, entry and exit points, and major highways to prevent criminal activities.
“We urge residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with the police by reporting any suspicious activities through our emergency lines: 07039675856, 08075391105.”
In Edo, the state police command said strategic deployment had been made to boost security in the state.
The State Commissioner Police, Betty Otimenyin, stated this in a statement by the spokesman of the command Moses Yamu.
The statement read, “The Commissioner assures the general public of adequate security, as strategic deployments have been made to priority areas such as prayer grounds, recreation centres, and other places of worship in collaboration with other security agencies to ensure hitch free sallah celebration.
“She emphasises the need for peaceful coexistence and religious tolerance during this period while calling on parents and guardians to ensure that their wards do not engage in substance abuse or other social vices that could threaten the safety of others.”
The Commissioner of Police, Ekiti State Command, Joseph Eribo, said security had been heightened across the state.
The PPRO, Ekiti State Command, SP Sunday Abutu, said in a statement on Sunday, “In view of this celebration, the Area Commanders, the DPOs and the HODs have been directed to beef up security and ensure the deployment of adequate Operatives to all strategic points and places of celebrations across the State.
“The Commissioner also enjoins parents and guardians to warn their wards against all acts that are inimical to the aim of the festival or can alter the peaceful atmosphere currently being enjoyed across the State as those who shall be found wanting will be made to face the full wrath of the law.
“The Command implores everyone to be security conscious, vigilant and immediately report to the nearest Police Station any untoward incident or happening observed in their locality or call 08062335577.”
Also, the Ogun State Police Command assured residents of their safety before, during and after the Ramadan holidays.
The spokesperson of the state police command, CSP Omolola Odutola, said the public should thus expect queues at designated checkpoints with police officers conducting stop-and-search operations in various locations, including Onigarri, Ayetoro, Ijebu-Ode, Sagamu, Long Bridge, Alapako, Ogunmakin and Abeokuta area.
She explained that Divisional Police Officers, under the supervision of Area Commanders, would be on patrol in their respective jurisdictions.
Odutola also said border towns would experience joint task force operations in collaboration with extended sister security agencies for continuous surveillance.
“Given the anticipated influx of visitors in Ogun State for the festivities, there can be no better time for Ogun State Police Command to solicit for patience as thorough security checks will be conducted.
“Conventional and Mobile Police Officers will be visibly stationed at prayer grounds and strategically positioned to prevent attacks and deter criminal activity.
“Specialised units focused on anti-cultism, anti-kidnapping, and tactical operations will also be present in tertiary institutions, where cooperation from students is essential, especially those who may not have processed their break.”
The Ondo State Police Command also deployed its officers and men in strategic locations across the state to prevent security breach.
According to the Public Relations Officer of the command, Funmilayo Odunlami, the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Wilfred Afolabi, ordered for the deployment, particularly along the major highways and boundaries of the state.
Odunlami said, “To ensure a hitch-free celebration, the CP has directed that security apparatus be emplaced at prayer grounds across the state to avoid security breach.
“The command also urged parents and guardians to keep a close watch on their children, especially toddlers, to prevent issues of missing persons during the celebration.
“Furthermore, adequate security has been put in place for motoring public transiting the state as policemen have been deployed along the highways and boundaries to ensure ease of movement and prevent any threat while in the state.”