The Okere of Sakiland, Oba Khalid Olabisi Oyedepo III, has called on Muslims across Oyo State and Nigeria to embrace peace, sacrifice, forgiveness and national unity as they celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir.
In a goodwill message issued on Tuesday to commemorate the Islamic festival, the monarch urged the Muslim Ummah to deepen their obedience to Allah and uphold the values of compassion, humility and tolerance which, according to him, define the essence of the sacred celebration.
The traditional ruler stressed the need for Nigerians to live harmoniously irrespective of religious or ethnic differences, warning against violence, extremism and acts capable of threatening the country’s unity.
“Let this Eid remind us that our shared humanity is strengthened when we forgive easily, love sincerely and live in peace with all,” he said.
Oba Oyedepo noted that Eid-el-Kabir symbolises the virtues of sacrifice, unwavering faith and total submission to the will of Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim and his son, Ismail.
He therefore encouraged Muslims to imbibe the lessons of discipline, obedience and devotion associated with the historic Islamic event.
The monarch also appealed to political, religious and traditional leaders to work collectively towards building a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
According to him, Nigerians are bound by a common destiny and must prioritise love, unity and patriotism in the interest of national development.
“As taught by Prophet Muhammad (SAW), the love of one’s country is an essential expression of faith,” he stated.
Oba Oyedepo further urged citizens to recommit themselves to the service of God, humanity and the nation, while calling for an end to kidnapping, killings and other forms of violence across the country.
He maintained that Islam remains a religion of peace and warned against extremist ideologies capable of distorting its teachings.
The royal father also prayed for peace, progress and stability in Oyo State and Nigeria, expressing hope that the Eid celebration would strengthen unity among Nigerians.
He congratulated Muslims in Sakiland, Oyo State and across the country on the occasion, praying that Allah accepts their acts of worship and grants the nation enduring peace and prosperity.