Eid-el-fitri: Miyetti Allah felicitates with South-East Muslims

The Deputy National Director of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Gidado Siddikki, has extended his felicitations to the people of South Eastern Nigeria, particularly Muslim communities, as they celebrate the 2025 Eid-el-Fitr.

Siddikki, in a statement he signed and made available to journalists shortly after the Eid-el-Fitr prayer held at DO’s Field, Amawbia, on Sunday, urged Muslims to use the festive occasion to pray for unity, peace, and prosperity in the South East and the country at large, amidst insecurity, economic challenges, and socio-political issues.

According to Siddikki, “On behalf of MACBAN and the Fulani community in the South East zone, I most heartily share the warm goodwill message of the 2025 Eid-el-Fitr with the entire Muslim ummah, the government, and the good people of the South East of Nigeria.”

The statement read: “Today marks the joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr, a day that signifies the completion of the holy month of Ramadan—a period of fasting, devotion, and reflection. On this blessed day, we seek Almighty Allah’s forgiveness for our shortcomings and pray for peaceful coexistence among ourselves and within our host communities.

“We also take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to His Eminence, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto and National President-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs. His unwavering commitment to fostering unity among Muslims across Nigeria is truly commendable.

“Notably, under his leadership, the commencement and conclusion of Ramadan fasting have been observed uniformly nationwide, without conflicts over moon sighting—a remarkable and unprecedented achievement.

“Additionally, I call upon faith-based organisations to exercise restraint and avoid any statements that may incite division, as their voices carry significant influence.

“Furthermore, I urge the supporters of religious leaders to refrain from hastily accusing their clerics of compromise simply because they meet with the President or Governors. These clerics are there to represent the interests of the people, and such engagements provide valuable opportunities for dialogue and advocacy. When a religious leader meets with President Tinubu or a Governor, it is not an act of betrayal but a chance to advance the collective interests of the Muslim community. Let us, therefore, support and pray for them rather than cast unwarranted doubts on their intentions.

“Presently, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the legitimate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We must support him so that he can succeed in his efforts to transform all sectors simultaneously. His vision for national development requires our collective cooperation and goodwill.

“I also call on the Governors of the South East to continue accommodating us so that we may continue our cattle-rearing and trading businesses in the region without hindrance.

“Special thanks to the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma, for his inclusive leadership towards the Muslim ummah. Though the Miyetti Allah group has been excluded, we recognise and appreciate his efforts towards other Muslim communities. Just as he has extended goodwill to them, we also deserve recognition and inclusion.”

Also, in his Eid-el-Fitr message, the leader of the Awka Muslim community, Alhaji Haruna Garuba, urged Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo to help provide them with a central mosque, Hausa central market, and a befitting praying ground in the state capital.

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