Eid-el-Kabir: A time for sacrifice, compassion, and unity — Idris Adewale Akanbi (Oj-iba)

As Muslims across our communities celebrate the blessed occasion of Eid-el-Kabir, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all Muslim faithful in Ibadan South West Local Government and beyond. May this sacred season bring peace, mercy, and renewed strength in the spirit of sacrifice, compassion, and unity among us all.

However, this year’s celebration comes with heavy hearts.

While families gather in joy and thanksgiving, our thoughts and prayers remain with the victims, families, and entire community affected by the heartbreaking tragedy in Oriire, Ogbomoso, where innocent children were abducted and teachers lost their lives in a painful incident that has deeply shaken us all.

Eid is not only a season of celebration, but also a reminder of humanity, sacrifice, and standing together in difficult times. At moments like this, we must remember those who cannot celebrate freely, those grieving the loss of loved ones, and families still waiting for the safe return of their children.

I sympathise with His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde (F.N.S.C), and pray that his efforts toward strengthening security across Oyo State will not be undermined by enemies of peace hiding under the guise of politics.

I join His Excellency and countless well-meaning Nigerians in calling for justice and decisive collective action to protect our schools, children, teachers, and communities. The security and safety of our people must remain a shared responsibility and a top priority that should never be politicised.

As we mark this holy season, let us continue to offer prayers for comfort to grieving families, hope to those in distress, and strength to all those working tirelessly to restore peace and safety in our land.

May Allah (SWT) accept our sacrifices, answer our prayers, and grant our land lasting peace, protection, and prosperity.

Eid Mubarak to all Muslim faithful.