Governor Douye Diri has called on Muslim faithful and religious leaders in Bayelsa to use the Eid-el-Fitr celebration as a platform to strengthen peace, unity, and harmonious living.
The governor made the appeal on Friday during a state banquet held in honour of the Muslim community at the Government House in Yenagoa. Represented by his deputy, Mr. Peter Akpe, he encouraged adherents to embody love for God and humanity, while embracing forgiveness, compassion, and peaceful conduct.
He further urged Muslims to reflect deeply on their actions, especially in fostering peace, stressing that sustainable development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of conflict.
Diri congratulated the Muslim faithful on the successful completion of Ramadan, urging them to uphold the enduring values of love, sacrifice, and peace as exemplified by Prophet Mohammed.
He said: “On behalf of the governor, I thank you for promoting peaceful coexistence in the state.
“We urge you to demonstrate actionable peace and strengthen harmony across communities.
“Bayelsa is regarded as one of the most peaceful states, and we expect the Muslim community to deepen love and peaceful conduct.
“Without peace, there can be no development. People will live in fear and cannot achieve their purpose.”
“Endeavour to make peace within and beyond your faith in all you do. This government does not segregate.”
Responding to requests from the community, including the provision of a secretariat and an 18-seater bus, the governor assured that they would be reviewed based on available resources.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser on Religious Matters, Rev. Godspower Asingba, described Ramadan as a sacred period of spiritual renewal for Muslims, noting that the state government provided food items and financial support at the onset of the fasting season.
Also speaking, Acting Vice President-General of the Bayelsa Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Yahaya Okee, expressed gratitude to God for seeing Muslims through the Ramadan fast.
He noted that Eid-el-Fitr represents spiritual rebirth, reconciliation, and thanksgiving, while appreciating the Diri administration for its continued support, particularly through food distribution and cash assistance during festive periods.
The cleric also appealed to the state government to renovate the Muslim community’s secretariat.
