The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the occasion of the 1443 AH Eid-el-Adha, describing it as quite special because it marks the first time Muslim pilgrims across the globe are allowed into Makkah to perform Hajj since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Executive Chairman, MPAC, Disu Kamor said Eid-el-Adha is a time for both reflection and celebration, adding that the trials of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his family, and their triumph are noble examples for us to stay true to our faith in the face of hardship and trials.
A statement issued on behalf of the Centre by the Chairman reads: “The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) wishes all Muslims a happy and blessed Eid-ul-Adha celebration. Times are hard. On one hand, Nigeria is caught in the whirlwind of the global recession where basic living conditions have been taken to the extremes. On the other hand, unchecked acts of terrorism, heightened insecurity and extreme poverty have all combined to make life unbearable for most Nigerians. The past year has also been a period of trial for the global Muslim community as many people have sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of peace, security, freedom and liberty. In all of these, we remain grateful to Allah for His numerous blessings and favours.
“As we follow in the footsteps of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), it is even more befitting to take personal lessons from the lives of the Prophets, particularly about God-consciousness, honesty, trustworthiness, patience and sacrifice. The total submission of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) has shown us that pleasure lies only in taqwā (God consciousness), seeking and fulfilling the will of Allah. Regarding God consciousness, Allah (SWT) says in the Quran:
“It is neither their flesh nor their blood that reaches Allah, but what does reach Him is the taqwā on your part. Thus He has made them (the animals) subjugated to you, so that you proclaim Allah’s glory for the guidance He gave you. And give good news to those who are good in their deeds.” (Al-Hajj, Qur’an 22:37)
MPAC also prayed for an end to corruption, poverty and insecurity bedevilling Nigeria, adding that Allah should provide the country with selfless leaders who know and will keep faith with God-consciousness in national affairs.
“We pray for a quick end to the global crisis. We pray for an end to endemic corruption, extreme poverty and intense insecurity in our nation. We pray for good and selfless leaders who know and will keep faith with God-consciousness in national affairs. We pray for God-fearing leaders that love all Nigerians. We pray that Allah returns our nation to the path of its old glory, safety, security and prosperity. Finally, we pray for the end of poverty, bloodshed, misery, fear in the land and the beginning of enduring joy and peace.”
According to MPAC, the ‘Eid period also serves as an opportunity to extend our hands and share our wealth with those less fortunate, noting the festivities only begin when we share our blessings with others.
The Muslim group also congratulated the pilgrims in Makkah, while wishing the global Muslim community a time of deep spiritual enrichment and shared joy with loved ones, friends and neighbours.
