As Muslims the world over celebrate this year Eid al-Adha, also known as Eid al-Kabir, religious leaders of all faiths have been advised to acknowledge their role as custodians of peace, and as such, refrain from making inflammatory statements that could disrupt societal harmony.
The advice came from Alhaji Gidado Siddiki, the Deputy Director-General, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, in a chat with newsmen in Awka on Sunday, to mark the Eid al-Kabir feast.
Eid al-Kabir is celebrated annually by Muslims worldwide to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Isma’il as an act of obedience to Allah, who then substituted Isma’il with a ram.
This is why Muslims traditionally sacrifice a ram on such a festival.
According to Alhaji Siddiki, Muslims observe Eid al-Kabir as an act of submission to Almighty Allah, in acknowledgement that everything they receive and experience is ordained by Him.
“Despite enduring losses due to attacks and insurgency, we recognize that insecurity affects every region, not just the South East.
“Therefore, we use this occasion to beseech Allah for forgiveness and grant solace to those who have lost loved ones, while expressing gratitude for our own health and survival,” he said.
Siddiki, who is the Sarikin Fulani in Awka, Anambra State Capital, further encouraged residents of the South East to refrain from actions that jeopardize the peaceful coexistence the people have enjoyed in the region.
According to him, they should engage in acts that foster unity and harmony amongst all residents.
He appealed to the state governments, traditional authorities, and other institutions in the South East to treat members of MACBAN equitably.
“I urge them to recognize us as their constituents deserving of fair treatment.
“Additionally, I urge religious leaders of all faiths to acknowledge their role as custodians of peace, refraining from making inflammatory statements that could disrupt societal harmony,” said Siddiki, who was the immediate past Southeast Zonal Chairman of MACBAN.
