Gov. Douye Diri of Bayelsa has urged religious leaders and adherents to use Eid-el-Fitr to promote love, unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
Diri spoke on Friday while hosting the Muslim community to a state dinner marking Eid-el-Fitr at Government House, Yenagoa.
Represented by his deputy, Mr Peter Akpe, he urged Muslims to show love for God and humanity, practise forgiveness, and demonstrate peace and compassion.
He said faithful should reflect on their conduct, particularly peace-building, noting that without peace, meaningful development would be impossible.
Diri congratulated Muslims on completing Ramadan and urged them to uphold virtues of love, peace and sacrifice, as taught by Prophet Mohammed.
He said: “On behalf of the governor, I thank you for promoting peaceful coexistence in the state.
“We urge you to demonstrate actionable peace and strengthen harmony across communities.
“Bayelsa is regarded as one of the most peaceful states, and we expect the Muslim community to deepen love and peaceful conduct.
“Without peace, there can be no development. People will live in fear and cannot achieve their purpose.”
“Endeavour to make peace within and beyond your faith in all you do. This government does not segregate.”
Responding to requests, including a secretariat and an 18-seater bus, Diri assured they would be considered within available resources.
Special Adviser on Religious Matters, Rev. Godspower Asingba, described Ramadan as a significant period for spiritual renewal in Islam.
He said the government supported Muslims with food items and financial assistance at the start of the fasting period.
Acting Vice President-General, Bayelsa Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Yahaya Okee, thanked God for enabling Muslims to complete Ramadan.
According to Okee, Eid-el-Fitr symbolises spiritual growth, reconciliation and gratitude to God and the Diri administration for its support.
He praised the government’s assistance, especially food items and cash gifts during festive periods.
The cleric appealed to the state government to rehabilitate the Muslim community’s secretariat.
