Victor EzejaAs Muslims all over the world celebrate the feast of Eid-el-Fitr, leading opposition figures in Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, have called on Nigerians to imbibe the lessons of the season, which include compassion, humility, and service to humanity, to build a just, equitable, and prosperous country.
In a salah message on Sunday, former Vice president of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, said that as Ramadan season encourages charity to the less privileged, leaders at various levels of government should initiate interventions that will cater to the wellbeing and welfare of the people.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelWhile lamenting that the 2025 Ramadan fasting came at a period of excruciating hardship and hunger in the country, Atiku called the attention of those in positions of authority to the practices of the Noble Prophet Muhammad that teach about the obligations of leadership to the people.
Atiku, who was the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 general election, said it is not enough for the government to ask that the people should brace themselves for harsh economic conditions but the leadership should “show compassion on the masses and by acting with fear of God.”
“The celebration of Eid-il-fitri should be an opportunity to remind ourselves to continue to intensify the good deeds that was embraced during Ramadan, and for the people to continue to pray for progress in our private lives and our dear country in general,” Atiku added.
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, said the period of Ramadan fasting, prayer, and spiritual renewal not only strengthens the faith of the people, but also reminds all about the enduring values of sacrifice, discipline, and love for one another.
As the Muslim faithful celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Fitr, Obi encouraged them to carry on with practicing the lessons of Ramadan- compassion, humility, and service to humanity.
The former Anambra State governor urged the citizens to seize this moment to renew their collective commitment to peace, unity, and the progress of Nigeria.
“At this critical time in our history, when many of our people face economic hardship, insecurity, and uncertainty, we must embrace the true essence of Eid—the spirit of giving, kindness, and solidarity. Let us extend a helping hand to the less privileged, support one another, and work together to build a just, equitable, and prosperous Nigeria,” Obi admonished.
He prayed that the Almighty Allah accepts the people’s sacrifices, grant them His boundless blessings, and bring peace and prosperity to the country.
READ ALSO: Eid-El-Fitr: Tinubu, Obi, Atiku, Sanwo-Olu Preach Unity For Nation Building
Eid al-Fitr for the year 2025 is celebrated on sundown of Sunday, 30th March, ending at sundown on Monday, 31st March.
The Nigerian government declared public holidays on Monday, 31st and Tuesday, 1st April 2025 for the Islamic feast.
Eid al-Fitr is on the first day of the month of Shawwal (Islamic Calendar) and marks the end of Ramadan (month long fasting) and the beginning of a feast that breaks the fast.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
