Dare Babalola
President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to embrace tolerance, generosity and peaceful coexistence as Muslims across the country prepare to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.
Speaking after observing the Eid prayers at Dodan Barracks in Lagos on Wednesday, Bola Ahmed Tinubu called on citizens to reject ethnic divisions and hatred capable of undermining national unity.
The President, who prayed alongside Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, former Lagos governor Babatunde Raji Fashola, the Oba of Lagos Rilwan Akiolu, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and other dignitaries, described Eid-el-Kabir as a season that symbolises obedience, sacrifice and love for humanity.
According to him, Nigerians should use the period to strengthen unity and demonstrate compassion toward one another.
“We thank Almighty Allah for making us witness another year of Eid-el-Kabir. We thank Him for His mercy, and we must learn from this season’s lessons, namely, showing love to one another. No discrimination, no ethnicity, no hatred; we should share love and be generous to one another in a way that reflects the values of our country and humanity,” Tinubu said.
The President stressed the importance of tolerance and respect for the rule of law, noting that Nigeria’s diversity should serve as a source of strength rather than division.
He also urged citizens to support the less privileged and uphold the sanctity of human life, condemning acts of banditry and violence.
“Nowhere in the holy teachings does it say you should engage in banditry or take a human life,” he said, adding that the story of Prophet Ibrahim highlights the value placed on human life.
In his sermon, the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Sulaimon Abou-Nolla, called on Muslims to fear Allah and promote unity, sacrifice and generosity in line with Islamic teachings.
The cleric also prayed for Tinubu’s continued good health and wisdom, while commending the contributions of past Nigerian leaders toward national unity.
