By Hassan Hussein
Distinguished Senator Alphonsus Ubanesse Igbeke, Development Expert and Lead Consultant to the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), has extended Eid al-Adha greetings to the Muslim Ummah across the country, urging adherents to embrace the deeper spiritual lessons of the festival.
In a message issued through his media office, Senator Igbeke said Eid al-Adha commemorates the unwavering obedience and submission of Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Ismail to the will of Allah, stressing that the celebration goes beyond ritual observance to reflect sacrifice, humility and devotion.
The Senator noted that the Qurban, or sacrificial offering, symbolizes not only the slaughter of animals but also the need for believers to overcome pride, greed and selfishness in their daily lives.
As Chairman of the Technical Working Group of the ALGON National Gas Expansion Programme under the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources (Gas), Senator Igbeke emphasized that the season calls on leaders at all levels to place service, justice and compassion above personal interests.
He said the five pillars of Islam — Shahadah, Salat, Zakat, Sawm and Hajj — provide the moral foundation for building peaceful homes, responsible leadership and harmonious communities.
Quoting the saying of Prophet Muhammad that, “None of you truly believes until you love for your brother what you love for yourself,” Senator Igbeke described the teaching as a guiding principle for justice, mercy and peaceful coexistence among citizens, regardless of religious or ethnic differences.
He added that the Prophet’s teachings on kindness, self-restraint and charity remain relevant in fostering unity and mutual respect in society.
The ALGON Lead Consultant prayed that the spirit of sacrifice associated with Eid al-Adha would inspire greater tolerance, accountability and understanding among Nigerians.
Senator Igbeke also prayed for Allah to accept the sacrifices of the faithful, purify their intentions and make them instruments of peace and harmony.
He wished Muslims across Nigeria a peaceful and fulfilling Eid celebration.
