The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Monday 25 and Tuesday 26 May, as Public Holidays to mark this year’s Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
The Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulated all Muslim faithful for the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.
Aregbesola called on them to replicate the life of kindness, love, tolerance, peace and good neighbourliness, as exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him), even as he expressed concern over the spate of ethnic conflicts that have resurfaced in some parts of Northern Nigeria in recent times.
He advised Nigerians to see themselves as a single entity and therefore learn to tolerate one another despite ethnic and religious differences.
Ogbeni Aregbesola assured Nigerians that the Administration of President Muhammadu Buhari is fully committed to battling the scourge of coronavirus with the cooperation of all Nigerians.
While commending the security agencies for the successes so far recorded in the fight against the Boko Haram insurgency in the North East, he advised Nigerians to take responsibility against the spread of coronavirus pandemic and also stay safe by observing physical and social distancing, personal and respiratory hygiene, as well as other regulations issued by relevant authorities.
As part of his admonition to Muslims on the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr and his emphasis on individual responsibility for adherence to coronavirus guidelines and regulations, the Minister reminded them 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.”
