The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has congratulated Muslims on the forthcoming Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging them to remain vigilant and security-conscious throughout the festive period.

The monarch advised in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Media Aide, Adeola Oloko, in Ibadan.

Oba Ladoja said witnessing another Eid-el-Kabir celebration was a privilege that should not be taken for granted, stressing the need for residents to celebrate responsibly amid the prevailing security challenges confronting the country.

According to him, Muslims should combine merriment with prayers and caution, especially in view of rising insecurity and recent incidents of kidnapping and banditry in parts of the country.

“Although the occasion calls for merriment, we need to celebrate it prayerfully and soberly, bearing in mind the challenges facing Nigeria, such as insecurity,” the monarch said.

The first-class traditional ruler explained that being vigilant entails remaining aware of happenings within one’s environment and taking necessary precautions while celebrating the exemplary life and sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim.

He described Eid-el-Kabir as one of the most spiritually significant festivals in the Islamic calendar and urged Muslims to use the occasion to pray for peace, security and prosperity in Nigeria, particularly ahead of future political activities in the country.

Oba Ladoja also urged well-meaning Nigerians to extend support to the less privileged during the celebration, noting that compassion and charity remain central lessons of the festival.

“Hands are not equal. Those who are blessed should be ready to share and care for those who are less privileged,” he added.

The Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs further expressed concern over the rising spate of insecurity and banditry across the country, particularly the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

He urged Muslims and other Nigerians to continue praying for the safe release of the abducted victims and support ongoing efforts by security agencies and relevant stakeholders to restore peace and security in the affected communities.

The monarch also called for unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence among residents, stressing that collective efforts and prayers were necessary to overcome the nation’s current security and socio-economic challenges.