Muslim faithful in the South East, joined their counterparts in the country and across the world to celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Fitr.
South East Trust reports that the celebration was hitch-free across the region as security operatives were deployed to man strategic locations to protect residents.
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At the various centres visited by our correspondents, it was discovered that Chief Imams used the occasion to urge Nigerians irrespective of religious and ethnic differences to coexist and live in peace with one another.
They called on the faithful to reflect on the teachings of the holy month and intensify prayers for the peace, security, unity and progress of the country.
They enjoined Nigerians to continue to put their trust in God and embrace the cherished virtues of love, charity, peace and sacrifice as exemplified by the Holy Prophet Mohammed.
The Chief Imam of Owerri Central Mosque, Alhaji Suleiman Njoku, said that despite the security challenges in Imo State, the Muslim community celebrated the Eid-el-Fitr with fanfare.
Speaking to our correspondent in Owerri on Thursday, Njoku said that this was contrary to the fears being expressed in some quarters that the celebration would be low-key following the spate of attacks and the killing of some traders from the Northern part in the state recently.
Muslim faithful gathered as early as 7:30 am at the central mosque where they observed the Eid prayers.
“We celebrated Sallah without any problem. We observed our prayers peacefully and without any incident. We also paid Sallah homage to the governor of the state, who admonished us to continue to preach peace and live in harmony with our neighbours.
“We are more than grateful to the good people of Imo State for the convivial atmosphere we enjoyed during the celebration,” he said.
Muslim faithful in Umuahia observed the Eid prayer at Umuahia township stadium. Our Correspondent reported that over one thousand worshipers participated in the prayer.
The Chief Imam, Umuahia Central Mosque, Alhaji Umar Lawan, who spoke through an interpreter, called for peaceful co-existence. He urged the faithful to always put into practice all the lessons they have learnt during the Ramadan period.
The chairman of Nigeria Supreme council for Islamic Affairs, Abia State, Alhaji Suleiman Ukandu, who congratulated Muslim faithful for a successful Ramadan, called for justice, fairness and equity in the country.
The Sarikin Hausa of Abia State, Alhaji Yaro Danladi, urged Muslims to use the period of Eid-el-Fitr to show love to one another as well as give alms to the poor and the needy in the society.
The celebration was peaceful in Abakaliki as the faithful gathered at the Central mosque to observe prayers.
Also, children were sighted at the popular Amazement Park taking horse rides.
Some families also visited eateries in the state.
From Jude Aguguo Owuamanam, Owerri, Linus Effiong, Aba, and Nabob Ogbonna, Abakiliki
