Abia state governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu has said that the current security challenges facing the country demands concerted efforts of all the stakeholders to both the Federal and State governments to guarantee adequate protection of life and property of citizens.
Dr lkpeazu who stated this when leaders of the Muslim Community in the state paid him a Sallah visit as part of the celebration of this year’s Eld – El – Kabir at the Government House Lodge , Umuahia maintained that the increasing menace of Kidnapping, banditry and other criminal activities across the nation can only be tackled when the people decide to be their brothers keepers irrespective of the religious or ethnic background.
Represented by his deputy, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, the governor enjoined the Muslim faithfuls in the state to reflect on the real essence of the celebration of the Eld El Kabri which signifies faith, sacrifice and obedience to the will of God by reassessing their relationship with God and fellow Nigerians and rededicate themselves to the service of God and humanity.
He commended the peaceful coexistence existing between the Muslim community and the state govt, assuring that govt will continue to partner with them and urged the leaders of the Muslim communities to impress on their people the need to embrace the spirit of love for one another rather than promoting disunity and religious intolerance.
Governor Ikpeazu used the forum to congratulate and wish the entire Muslim community resident in the state a happy salla celebration as well reassured of govt’s commitment to ensure the protection of lives and property of every citizen in the state.
Speaking on behalf of the Muslim community in the state, the Chief Imam of Abia State, Sheik Ali Ukaiwo described the celebration of Eld El Kabir as a period the Muslim Umar perform the obedience and submission of Abraham to the will of God and thanked the state govt for always identifying with the Muslim Umar in the state during the Eld El Kabir and Eld Fitri celebration and reassured them of their support at all time.
Also Speaking, the Serikin Hausa, Alhaji Danladi Yaro appreciated the Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu led govt for his giant strides in the development of the state and solicited for assistance to help them ease some of the problems confronting them.
The event attracted the presence of the state chairman, PDP, Sir Johnson Onuigbo, Permanent secretaries, top govt officials and leaders of the various Muslim groups in the state.
