President Muhammadu Buhari has sent a congratulatory message to Muslims in Nigera and across the world as they celebrate the Eid-El-Fitri, marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting and intense prayers by the faithful.
Mallam Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, revealed this in a release on Wednesday.
Shehu quoted the President, in a message signed by him, as saying:
“On this blessed occasion, I wish that the Eid festival brings with it peace, safety, security, brotherhood and love amongst all.
“Unity and solidarity among all citizens, Muslims and Christians are imperative especially at a time when our country is faced with multiple challenges which are surmountable only when we come together as one.
“It is important that we remember how we share, through our faiths, common bonds that should serve to unite us and not allow ourselves to succumb to those who seek to divide us, using our two great religions, for their own selfish advantages.
“We should jointly pray against the tragic incidents of kidnapping and banditry and the desperate quest for political power expressed through blackmail against the existence of our country as a united entity.
“We must resist the temptation to retreat into our communities. I urge our political and religious leaders as well as traditional rulers to encourage our citizens to turn towards one another in love and compassion.”
Buhari also said that it was heartwarming and delightful to see Christians breaking fast and in some instances, extending goodwill and gifts to Muslim faithfuls during the Ramadan. “This model also shone through with Muslim groups joining Christian festivities,” the President further observed. “These are practices that promote brotherhood and forgiveness.”
President Buhari urged Nigerians to continue to observe all COVID-19 prevention protocols emplaced by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, and celebrate responsibly during the holidays.