By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
Today’s rakaat congregational Eid-el-Ftri special prayers in Borno State were observed peacefully under tight security within and outside Maiduguri City following the recent heavy gunshots which was heard few days ago.
The Sallah celebration also witnessed little restriction of vehicular movements before, during and after the Eid prayers in many locations within Maiduguri, the state capital.
In this year’s Eid prayer, it was observed that the number of people that attended the Eid Fitri prayers were twice, if not more than the size of the population of last year, where thousands of Muslims faithful converged on various Eid grounds across the metropolis to observe the two rakaat special prayers which symbolized the end of the month-long Ramadan fast and first day of the tenth month of Shawwal 1443 AH.
In a visit to El Kanemi Centra Mosque, Bulunkutu Yan No Eid ground and Airport Junction Eid ground Gomari as well as Old Airport Eid grounds, it was observed that the special prayers were held peacefully as security operatives were seen in various strategic locations.
While at the Ramat Square Eid ground, the special prayer was led by the Imam Idaini of Borno. While Senator Shettima Mamman Saleh with the State Deputy Governor, Hon. Umar Usman Kadafu, Senator Kashim Shettima, along side members of state executive council and other top government functionaries were in attendance.
In his sermon, The Imam Idaini of Borno, Imam Idaini, Shettima Saleh, urged the Muslims to continue with all the good deeds that were observed during the month of Ramadan even after the six days of Shirts Shawwal, which would commenced from the third day of the month of Shawwal .
Imam Saleh, further, enjoined the Muslim faithfuls to distance themselves from all evil acts and continue with the good deeds of the month of Ramadan.
He also called on wealthy individuals and philanthropists to continue to support the less privileged in the society.
His key note message also dwelt on the benefits and virtues of giving out charity to the poor ( Zakatul Fitri and Sadakatul Jaria), which he said is compulsory for every Muslim at the end of the Ramadan fast.
The cleric, however, prayed for lasting peace in Borno State, North East region and entire country at large while appreciating the efforts and sacrifices of the security agencies. He also cautioned politicians to conduct themselves in a peaceful way and ensure a hitch free and fair elections come 2023.
Meanwhile, in his Sallah message to the people of Borno, The Deputy Governor , Hon. Umar Kadafur, commended the people for their corporations with the state government in addressing Insecurity, alleviating poverty and the rebuilding process in the state.
Hon. Kadafur, further, called on politicians and their supporters not to misuse the opportunity giving to them during the forthcoming general elections. For election according to him, “is not a do or die affair”.
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