The Sooko Agoriesin of Ile-Ife and Aare Yoruba Agbaye-President of the Yoruba Council Worldwide, Sooko Oladotun Hassan, has called on Nigerians to embrace peace, unity and collective responsibility in addressing the security challenges confronting the country as Muslims across the world celebrate the Eid-ul-Kabir festival.
In his Eid-ul-Kabir message made available to journalists on Wednesday, Sooko Agoriesin congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and across the world for witnessing another season of sacrifice, obedience and devotion symbolised by the holy celebration.
He urged Nigerians irrespective of religious, ethnic and political differences to use the occasion to pray for the peace, stability and progress of the nation, stressing that national development can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity and security.
According to him, insecurity remains a major concern that requires the collective efforts of all citizens, noting that government alone cannot win the fight without the cooperation of the people.
The Yoruba Council Worldwide President therefore appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, community stakeholders, youths and security agencies to work together in supporting ongoing efforts aimed at restoring peace and safeguarding lives and property across the country.
Sooko Hassan also expressed support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying Nigerians must rally behind the Federal Government in its determination to combat insecurity and strengthen national unity.
He said, “Eid-ul-Kabir teaches us the values of sacrifice, tolerance, love and obedience to God. At this critical time in our nation, Nigerians must come together as one people and support every genuine effort towards achieving lasting peace and security.
“Insecurity is our collective responsibility. We must support the government, security agencies and community-based initiatives in the fight against criminality. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and together we can build a peaceful and prosperous nation.”
The respected Yoruba leader further urged citizens to avoid actions and utterances capable of inciting violence, hatred and division, while encouraging Nigerians to continue to uphold the values of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
He prayed for divine blessings, protection and prosperity for Nigeria and wished Muslims a peaceful and rewarding Eid-ul-Kabir celebration.
