By Ishola Balogun
The Muslim Congress (TMC) has urged Nigerian Muslims to use the occasion of Eidul-Adha to reflect on the nation’s socio-economic problems, such as massive unemployment, rising incidence of poverty and insecurity of lives and property.
The Congress also appealed to Muslims not to forget the memorable lessons of devotion, dedication, commitment and nation-building exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim (Peace be upon him) on the occasion of Eidul-Adha, one of the two important festivals in Islam, adding that it was particularly thrilled by the sincerity with which Nigerian Muslims across ethnic lines complied with the announcement of Sultan of Sokoto and President, Nigerian Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar that the faithful should align with the lunar counting of Dhul Hijjah as announced by the Saudi Arabia authority.
According to the Amir of the group, Dr. Luqman AbdurRaheem, in a chat with Vanguard said: “The 100% compliance by NSCIA after consultations demonstrates our love for the leadership of this apex body. All Muslims in Nigeria must learn from this exemplary behaviour.
“As we celebrate Eidul-Adha by eating and drinking on Tuesday August 21, 201aqqa8 (10th of Dhul Hijjah 1439AH), The Congress prays that Allah accepts our sacrifices of rams, goats, camels and cows from us as rewardable acts of worship and grants us all Jannat-ul-Firdaus, amin.
“Brothers and Sisters in Islam, while engrossed in eating and drinking, we should not forget the memorable lessons of devotion, dedication, commitment and nation-building exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim (Peace be upon him). Allah reminds: And remember that Ibrahim was tried by his Lord with certain commands, which he fulfilled: He said: “I will make thee an Imam to the Nations.” He pleaded: “And also (Imams) from my offspring!” He answered: “But My Promise is not within the reach of evil-doers.” (Qur’an 2:124).
“Today is a period of celebration and merry-making; it is also an opportune time for us to show empathy to fellow Muslims and Non-Muslims through sharing and giving, by providing assistance in cash and in kind to those in serious need. This is the essence of Islamic festivity enjoined by the Prophet (Peace be upon him). Eidul-Adha is also a period for remembrance of Allah, the Exalted and His prohibitions. Let us remain Muslims while celebrating. Let us avoid immodest acts.”
