Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Abdullahi Ganduje (Kano), Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), Godwin Obaseki ( Edo), Gboyega Oyetola (Osun), Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq (Kwara), Hope Uzodinma (Imo) and Simon Lalaong (Plateau) have urged Nigerians to take advantage of Eid-el-Fitr to promote peaceful coexistence across the country.

In their separate congratulatory messages to Muslims for the end of this year’s Ramadan, the governors also called for continued belief in the country.

They also stressed the need for all Muslim faithful to obey all protocols provided by health authorities during Eid prayers to contain COVID-19spread in the country.

Sanwo-Olu said, “I join millions of people around the world to wish our Muslim brothers and sisters in Lagos State and Nigeria happy Eid-el-Fitr. For Muslims, today’s celebration is very unique. It is a feast to mark the end of a month-long spiritual renewal following thirty days of fasting and other religious acts.”

He urged Muslims to continue on the path of spirituality, respect for one another, and peaceful coexistence among all Lagosians.

Ganduje stressed the need for Muslim faithful to join the fight to contain coronvirus spread.

He said,

While social distancing is necessary, face masks and hand washing with soap around the designated places for Eid-Fitr prayers, among other protocols, must also be observed strictly.

According to Okowa, this year’s celebration has come at a time the world is plagued by the coronavirus pandemic, urging Muslims to celebrate in their homes.

Fayemi urged Muslims and adherents of other religions to live in love, peace and harmony.

Sule urged Muslim faithful to comply with the government preventive guidelines on coronavirus disease (COVID-19) by observing social distancing, wearing of face masks, among others to contain the spread of the virus.

Abiodun called on Muslims to keep the faith and rededicate themselves to finding a solution to the pandemic.

He advised against claims that could aggravate the pandemic.

Obaseki said his administration was committed to promoting peaceful coexistence in Edo.

He said,

I urge all Muslims in Edo State to sustain these values even after the Holy month to build a prosperous and peaceful Edo State where everyone can actualise their dreams.

AbdulRazaq called on Muslims to observe their Eid prayers at home to contain COVID-19 spread.

Uzodimma commended Muslims for their resilience, dedication, patience, and self-sacrifice in the face of the coronavirus pandemic ravaging the global community.

In his message, Lalong urged Muslim brothers and sisters to reflect on the spiritual benefits accruing from their fasting and prayers, and apply them to their lifestyle for a better society.

Oyetola said the situation in the country had made it more compelling for people to reach out and show love to the poor.

He said Muslims must continue to reflect on and sustain the lessons and virtues of the Ramadan and replicate the same.

Justin Nwosu

Justin Nwosu is the founder and publisher of Flavision. His core interest is in writing unbiased news about Nigeria in particular and Africa in general. He’s a strong adherent of investigative journalism, with a bent on exposing corruption, abuse of power and societal ills.