The Chief Imam of Calabar Central Mosque, Akere Abdulhafeez, has urged Nigerians to embrace peace, humility and sacrifice as Muslims celebrate Eid al-Adha.
Speaking in Calabar, the Cross River State capital in the South-South region, shortly after Eid prayers, Abdulhafeez said the essence of the celebration goes beyond the slaughtering of rams and cows, stressing that true sacrifice lies in submitting wholly to God and living peacefully with others.
He said, “Sacrifice is not only about having money to buy 10 rams or 20 cows. It is about bringing down your ego, lowering yourself for God Almighty and for humanity.”
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The Imam explained that Eid al-Adha commemorates the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim, who was willing to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command.
According to him, the slaughtering of animals during the festival is symbolic of total submission and devotion to God.
“The sacrifice itself is to bring yourself down before God Almighty and to ensure peace in society.”
He said that portions of the sacrificed meat are shared with the needy and less privileged, thereby promoting love, care and social solidarity.
Promote Peaceful Coexistence
The Islamic cleric also called on Nigerians, regardless of religion or ethnicity, to promote peace, unity and mutual understanding across the country.
“We should embrace peace and let peace resonate in us. Whether Muslim or Christian, we should find what unites us as human beings instead of fighting one another,” Abdulhafeez stated.
Abdulhafeez condemned the rising cases of communal clashes and violence in parts of the country, noting that such conflicts should not define Nigerians.
“So many communal feuds and fights are going on around the country. This should not be happening,” he added.
