BY EDMOND ODOK, ABUJA – The Federal Government has declared Monday 25 and Tuesday 26, May, 2020 as Public Holidays to mark this year’s Eidul-Fitr Celebration.
Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has therefore congratulated all Muslim faithful for the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.
Aregbesola, who announced the holiday in a statement on behalf of Federal Government, called on Muslims to replicate the life of kindness, love, tolerance, peace and good neighbourliness, as exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him).
The Minister also expressed concern about the spate of ethnic conflicts that has resurfaced in some parts of Northern Nigeria in recent times, even as he advised Nigerians to see themselves as a single entity and thus learn to tolerate one another despite their ethnic and religious differences.
While commending the security agencies for successes so far recorded in the fight against Boko Haram insurgency in the North East, Ogbeni Aregbesola urged Nigerians to take responsibility against the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and also stay safe by observing physical and social distancing, personal and respiratory hygiene, as well as other regulations issued by relevant authorities.
He further assured Nigerians that the President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration is fully committed to battling the scourge of COVID-19 with the cooperation of all Nigerians.
In admonishing Muslims on the celebration of this year’s Eidul-Fitr, Ogbeni Aregbesola emphasized the need for individual responsibility in adhering to the COVID-19 guidelines and regulations issued by relevant health authorities in the country.
The Minister said it is important for all worshippers to always obey constituted authorities as stated in the Glorious Qu’ran 4:59 where Allah says: “O ye who believe! Obey Allah, and obey the Messenger, and those charged with authority among you.
“If ye differ in anything among yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger, if ye do believe in Allah and the Last Day: That is best, and most suitable for final determination”.
The statement signed Mohammed Manga, Director of Press and Public Relations in the Interior Ministry quoted Ogbeni Aregbesola as wishing “all Muslims a happy Eidul-Fitr Celebration.”
