Obi, Akpabio advocate sustenance of Ramadan values
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has commended the Muslim faithful on the completion of the Ramadan fast, urging Nigerians to embrace compassion, forgiveness and mutual respect for a Nigeria where every life is cherished and protected.
On his part, the 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, congratulated Nigerian Muslims, urging them to uphold the Ramadan spirit of love, peace and unity beyond the fasting period.
Also, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, extended warm felicitations to the Muslim faithful, urging them to pray and work for the country’s unity.
In a statement, yesterday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, reaffirmed the commitment of the association to dialogue and cooperation with Muslim leaders to foster inter-faith initiatives that would help build a stronger nation.
He said: “On behalf of CAN, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our Muslim brothers and sisters on the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Fitr. This festival marks the end of Ramadan, a sacred month of fasting, prayer and reflection. As Christians, we deeply resonate with these practices, sharing with our Muslim neighbours the values of prayer, fasting, charity and community. These common principles form the foundation of our unity and offer hope for a stronger, more harmonious Nigeria.”
According to Okoh, while CAN acknowledges the Eid-el-Fitr celebration, it cannot ignore the pressing challenges confronting the country such as rampant kidnappings and violence in communities, economic difficulties, including soaring inflation and widespread unemployment, place immense burdens on countless families.
Okoh observed that social unrest, fuelled by the foregoing and other grievances, continued to test the citizens’ resilience.
“We must address a recent and devastating incident within this troubled context. A few days ago, 16 hunters travelling from Port Harcourt to Kano to mark Eid-el-Fitr were brutally murdered by a mob in Uromi, Edo State. Mistaken for kidnappers due to the traditional hunting tools they carried, these innocent men suffered a horrific fate – beaten and burned alive in an act of mob violence, denied any chance of due process,” Okoh added.
This extrajudicial killing, he asserted, is a grievous violation of human rights and a chilling reminder of the dangers of lawlessness.
CAN emphasised that in the face of such challenges, Nigerians must not succumb to despair but unite for peace and security.
SPOKESPERSON of the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR), Umar Ibrahim, quoted Obi thus:
“I join the Muslim faithful across Nigeria in celebrating Eid-el-Fitr 2025. May Almighty Allah accept our prayers, fasting and supplications now and always.”
Obi described his experience breaking fast with different Muslim communities as deeply fulfilling, emphasising that the generosity and compassion of Ramadan should continue in daily life.
“Ramadan teaches us selflessness, kindness and unity. These values should guide us beyond this season, shaping our interactions and strengthening our nation.”
He also prayed for national peace, security and progress, expressing hope that Nigeria would witness greater stability and prosperity.
The statement added: “May the lessons of Ramadan inspire love in our hearts, foster harmony in our communities, and bring growth and development to our nation.
“Once again, I congratulate our Muslim brothers and sisters. May the blessings of Allah be with you and your families. Eid Mubarak!”
IN a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, EsemeEyiboh, like Obi, Akpabio emphasised the importance of sustaining the values of Ramadan beyond the fasting period.
“As you celebrate the end of Ramadan and mark this joyous occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on behalf of my family, constituents, the 10th Senate, and the entire National Assembly. May this celebration bring you peace, happiness and spiritual renewal. May the blessings of Allah be upon you and your loved ones.”
He urged Nigerians to embrace the core values of Ramadan, which are compassion, kindness and generosity, while fostering national unity.
