Muslims in Anambra State, marked Eid ul-Fitr with a strong call for national unity, peaceful coexistence, and political restraint ahead of the country’s next electoral cycle.
The celebration, signalling the end of Ramadan, also served as a moment to reinforce interfaith harmony and a shared commitment to Nigeria’s stability.
Worshippers converged on the Amawbia Recreation Field in Awka, the state capital, where men, women, and children from diverse backgrounds, including Hausa, Fulani, and other Muslim communities, joined in prayers and festivities.
Clad in colourful traditional attire, the congregation reflected a shared spirit of devotion, underscored by messages of tolerance, compassion, and social cohesion.
Speaking to the gathering, the leader of the Hausa community in Anambra State, Alhaji Garba Haruna, urged Muslims nationwide to remain committed to prayers for peace and unity, particularly as Nigeria looks towards the 2027 general election.
He warned against political tensions escalating into conflict, stressing that democracy can only flourish in an environment grounded in respect, tolerance, and the rule of law.
“Nigeria needs peace to strengthen its unity and progress,” he said, calling on citizens and political actors alike to place national interest above personal ambition.
Haruna further encouraged Muslims to uphold the values cultivated during Ramadan, such as patience, generosity, and compassion, and to maintain positive relationships with their host communities.
Demonstrating interfaith goodwill, Muslim leaders extended Eid greetings to Christian communities and other religious groups in the state, reaffirming their commitment to peaceful coexistence.
Observers say the celebration reflects a broader pattern of religious tolerance in Nigeria, where diverse communities continue to coexist despite differences in faith and culture.
As the country approaches another critical political period, the message from Anambra’s Muslim community remains clear: unity, mutual respect, and peace are essential pillars for sustainable national development.