As Muslims in Imo State joined their colleagues all over the world to celebrate Eid El-Fitr, signalling the end of the 30 holy days of Ramadan, Governor Hope Uzodimma gave them a treat to treasure.
In Uzodimma’s usual manner, he feted the Muslim faithful to show solidarity and canvass peace and religious tolerance in the state. The event held at the Banquet Hall, Government House Owerri.
At the event, Uzodimma said: “This year, while we also in solidarity salute the Muslims, we pray that God will give us all the blessings that are obtainable during the Holy period. And by the time we meet again next year, our lots would have been better.”
Assuring the Muslim community in the state that government will provide available support to ensure conducive living in Imo, the governor added: “We don’t want disunity among us. We want you to be united. We want you to love yourselves. We want you to do only those things the Holy Qur’an allows, and follow the teaching of Islam which is the teaching of love, tolerance, perseverance and being your brothers’ keeper.”
Earlier, the Sarikin Hausa, Alhaji Auwal Baba Suleiman, on behalf of the Muslim Community in Imo State, expressed appreciation to Uzodimma and the other Christian brothers for identifying with them.
He commended the governor for his unwavering commitment to fostering peace, unity and progress among all tribes and creed, regardless of social standing.
Alhaji Auwal said: “Imo State is a land of opportunities for all given the level of peace, security and harmony as all tribes have continued to thrive and conduct their legitimate businesses without fear of molestation.
“Your Excellency, your support to the Muslim community has been exceptionally unprecedented.”
He said they include appointment of Muslims into his Expanded Executive Council, sponsorship of Muslim pilgrims to Hajj, approving the construction of modern shopping plaza at Ama Hausa, Douglas Road (a project he pointed out will curb road side trading and improve security in the capital city, Owerri), among others.
The Sarikin Hausa used the occasion to urge all residents in Imo State to embrace and uphold the value of faith, tolerance and peaceful coexistence “in order to achieve our shared goals and aspirations.”
The event had in attendance many Christian brothers in solidarity, including the Chaplin Government House Chapel, Rev. Fr. Prof. Gilbert Alaribe, Hon. Obinna Egu (member Imo House of Assembly) and his wife, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, members of the Imo State Expanded Exco, illustrious sons of the State like Chiefs Tony Chukwu and Charles Ahize, Oba of Yoruba in Imo, HRH Oba Oladeji and the Chairman Muslim Community Sheikh Rashid Uwakwe and the Chief Imam of Muslims in Imo State, Sheikh Barr. Suleiman Yusuf Njoku, among others.
Speaking about the development, Stanford Arinze Nwokedi, SSA (Gov) Public Enlightenment, said it was in the character of the governor as a detribalised Nigerian leader to do so.
Nwokedi said: “As a celebrated Pan-Nigerian, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State hosted the Muslim community in this year’s celebration of Eid-el-Fitri, just like he always has done since he assumed office five years ago. This highlights his commitment to peaceful coexistence and unity among Nigerian citizens.
“This annual tradition reinforces values of love, mutual respect, and inclusivity, strengthening bonds among residents. By hosting this event, Uzodimma demonstrated his dedication to fostering a harmonious society in Imo State.”