The National Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat of Nigeria, Alhaji (Barr.) Alatoye Folorunso Azeez, has called on Nigerians to embrace sincere obedience to Allah and reflect deeply on their actions as Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Adha.
In his Eid message to Nigerians, Muslims and non-Muslims alike, Alhaji Azeez described Eid-ul-Adha as a significant period marked by Hajj and animal sacrifice, stressing that the celebration goes beyond the symbolic slaughtering of animals.
According to him, the essence of Eid lies in obedience and total submission to Allah, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS), whose willingness to obey Allah’s command has remained an enduring lesson for humanity.
“If Prophet Ibrahim had not obeyed Allah’s command and placed service to Allah above his emotions, Muslims would not be celebrating Eid today,” he stated.
He explained that Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and sincerity in serving Allah earned him divine pleasure and established a lasting legacy for generations.
The Amir urged Muslims to examine their intentions during acts of worship, noting that religious obligations should not be carried out for societal recognition or public applause.
He questioned whether sacrifices made during Eid were truly for Allah’s pleasure or merely to showcase wealth and social status.
“Did we perform Hajj simply to add the title of ‘Alhaji’ or ‘Alhaja’ to our names? In Islam, intention matters greatly because while people may not see our intentions, Allah sees everything,” he said.
Alhaji Azeez further noted that acts carried out solely to please Allah attract divine blessings, regardless of how insignificant they may appear to people, while deeds done for show or personal gain lack Allah’s favour.
Citing the Holy Quran, Chapter 5 Verse 17, he said Allah promises to guide those who seek His pleasure onto the path of peace and deliver them from darkness.
He urged Nigerians to reflect on whether their actions genuinely align with Allah’s teachings, especially amid the country’s challenges, including corruption, banditry and insurgency.
The Islamic leader expressed concern over the involvement of some Muslims in criminal activities, asking whether such acts could ever be considered obedience to Allah or consistent with the exemplary life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
“As we distance ourselves from obedience to Allah and service in His cause, how do we expect to receive Allah’s favour and support?” he asked.
He called on Muslims to use the Eid period for sober reflection and a reassessment of their priorities by placing obedience to Allah above personal desires and worldly recognition.
Alhaji Azeez prayed for Allah’s guidance and strength for Nigerians to remain steadfast in righteousness and sincere worship.
