Muslims yesterday celebrated Eid al-Adha with calls for charity, sacrifice and contentment despite the prevailing economic hardship, which many faithful said made it difficult to afford rams for the festivities.

The Guardian learnt that those who could afford rams returned home after the Fajr prayers to celebrate with their families and loved ones.

Speaking with The Guardian, Waheed Adio said, “We are celebrating Salah partially this year. There is no money, but we have good health and we are alive, and I thank God.”

He urged wealthy Muslims to support the less privileged and ease the financial burden on the masses.

“I urge Islamic faithful to support the masses and Muslim brothers to reduce financial burdens on the people. Their generosity will promote Islam and uplift the people,” he said.

Commenting on governance, Adio expressed disappointment over the state of the nation. “People in government know what to do. Advising them is like a waste of energy and saliva. They have failed to act towards the masses in good faith. They have failed to quash terrorism and it is unfair on Nigeria,” he added.

Another resident, Qudus Mohammed, said Muslims remained grateful for the example of sacrifice demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim. “We are grateful for the method of sacrifice laid down by Prophet Ibrahim,” he said.

Also speaking, Biola Duroti described the period as a time of joy and family bonding despite the harsh economic climate.

“This is a time of celebration for the Duroti family. There is celebration from house to house, and we are happy. Let us forget about the economy of the country. It is not easy to adapt to the situation, but we still bless God,” he said.

“We have been celebrating Salah since I was a child, and we will continue to celebrate. I wish Muslims more celebrations, and people should remember that anything without God is nothing.”

He also stressed the importance of generosity and sacrifice during the season. “People who have the means should give. Everything about Islam is a lesson. Ramadan teaches giving, while Salah is a time for sacrifice. You cannot eat the ram you slaughter alone,” he said.

On the rainfall recorded during the celebrations, Abd’Akeem Alao, said it symbolised peace and divine blessings. “Rain means peace, and the sun also symbolises peace. It shows that God is with us. God alone has the power to make rain fall and the sun shine. This is not the first time we are celebrating with rainfall,” he said.

“I wish our brothers and sisters around the world good health and wealth,” he added.