The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has tasked Muslims in the State to continue to support government programmes and policies and take the right decisions to ensure sustainability of the development recorded by his administration across all sectors of the state’s economy
The governor said this while receiving Muslim faithful in Benin City led by the Deputy Chief Imam, Alh Osahon Otokiti, during the traditional Sallah homage in Government House, Benin City.
The governor who was represented by his Deputy, Engr Marvellous Omobayo said the Obaseki-led administration is committed to the well-being of Muslims in the State through the Muslim feeding programme, which is designed to ensure that the poor in society are given a sense of belonging.
“As the celebration is all about sacrifice, Nigeria is a secular nation and everyone is free to practice his or her religion. As you practice your religion, let it reflect in your life so that people can be drawn to it through your way of life.
“We should collaborate and make Edo State a peaceful place and make it habitable for all. I urge you all to continue to practice total submission to the will of Allah.
“The governor holds the Muslims in high esteem. The governor is not here today because of his engagement outside the State. The launch of the Muslims feeding programme is not political but to get to the poorest of the poor in Edo State, be it Christian or Muslims.
“This programme was devoid of any political linkages as all food items were procured by Muslims themselves without the involvement of politicians or political parties. The government trusts religious leaders to do right and just in the programme.”
He noted that the feeding programme also helps in collating and improving the data of the poorest of the poor in the State.
Chairman of the Edo State Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alh Abdulaziz Igbinidu, commended the Obaseki-led administration for his commitment to the wellbeing of Muslims, adding, “I want to thank the governor for his support to Muslims across the State. We will not take the support for granted and have enjoyed his efforts in the past seven and a half years. The governor has signed the CofO for the prayer ground and our land, which was encroached upon, has been returned to the Muslim community. We will continue to be grateful.
The Deputy Chief Imam of the Benin Central Mosque, Alh Osahon Otokiti said, “The core virtues of this festival is absolute commitment, honesty, truthfulness, sincerity of purpose, obedience, self-denial, sacrifice, patience, tolerance, perseverance and endurance.