Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma
Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo has urged Muslim community in Imo and in the country at large, to emulate the virtues and noble teachings of Prophet Mohammed (SAW) at all times.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Oguwike Nwachuku on Saturday , Uzodinma harped on love for one another, sacrifice, peaceful co-existence with neighbours, kindness, among others.
In demonstrating his love for all Muslim brothers and sisters, the governor on Friday, presented 600 bags of 50 kilograms of rice and two live cows to the Muslim faithful in the state.
Uzodinma, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Nnamdi Anyaehie, at the presentation, said the gift was a way of extending the government’s and Imo people’s warmest felicitations and goodwill to Muslim brothers and sisters in the state.
“It is for them to know that Nigerians are one and that the major religions are also the same.
“The government of Imo very much appreciates the Muslims that are living in the state and sees every resident of , be them Christians or Muslims as one and should live in harmony, unity and be our brothers keepers.
“Most importantly, we should love one another bearing in mind that both religions have co-existed for a long time.”
Uzodinma said since the Muslims celebrated with Christians at Christmas and Easter, it was equally right and proper that Christians should celebrate with them this time.
Receiving the gift items, the Sarki Hausawa in the state, Alhaji Auwalu Suleiman expressed gratitude of the Muslim community, describing Uzodinma as “a man who has shown that he is detribalised and do not segregate.”
He prayed that Allah should make Uzodinma’s tenure the best in the state.
On the significance of the celebration, the Saraki said it was to emulate the sacrifice Prophet Abraham made to Almighty Allah when he asked him to use his son to make sacrifice to him.
Furthermore, he said that while some Muslims travelled on pilgrimage to Mecca, others who could not make it showed appreciation by slaughtering rams as sacrifice to Almighty Allah.
The leaders of Yoruba and Hausa Muslim communities in the state and other leaders were around to receive the gifts.
The chief of staff was assisted at the presentation by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Declan Emelumba, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr Emeka Agbo, the Chief Press Secretary/Media Adviser, Chief Oguwike Nwachuku and other members of the State Expanded Executive Council. (NAN)
