By Meletus EZE
Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State on Monday called on Muslims to embrace the values of sacrifice, love and continue to foster unity as they join their counterparts worldwide to celebrate the Eid-el-Kabir.
Ambode, in his Sallah message, said the period of the celebration was a clarion call for Nigerians to imbibe the lessons of the season.
He listed such lessons as selfless service to God and humanity, sacrifice, and sincere commitment to righteous conducts in their private and public life.
The governor said the significance of the season should be beyond feasting.
Ambode said as Muslims prepare to offer animal sacrifice in the prescribed days of the festival, the real essence should be to encourage piety, self-discipline and sacrifice.
He called on all Nigerians to exhibit these values for the good of the country and shun acts capable of heating up the polity or causing distrust among various ethnic groups in the country.
“As we celebrate this auspicious occasion, let us renew our faith in our nation and implore the Almighty God to restore to us those values that place high premium on human life, love of neighbour and sharing, even as we ventilate our faith in the unity of our dear country.
“This period requires more patience, fortitude, tolerance, endurance, patriotism and a greater willingness to make personal sacrifices for the good of all,” he said.
The governor also thanked Lagosians for supporting his administration.
He assured them that the government would continue to do its best to serve the people and promote fairness and mutual tolerance among the populace, irrespective of their ethnic, religion or political affiliation.
Ambode urged Nigerians in general to continue to be their brothers’ keeper.
