By David Lawani, Abuja
Former Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, John Onaiyekan, has called on President Bola Tinubu to demonstrate stronger leadership in addressing the nation’s economic hardship and worsening insecurity as Muslims across the country celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.
Speaking in his Eid-el-Kabir exclusive message with ThisNigeria, Onaiyekan congratulated Nigerian Muslims on the celebration and prayed for peace, unity and national healing, while also urging the President to take responsibility for the current state of the nation.
“I wish the President happy Eid-el-Kabir. May God bless him, give him knowledge, grace and the political will to do what needs to be done,” the cleric said.
He stressed that the nation was passing through difficult times, noting that many Nigerians were suffering under harsh socio-economic conditions.
“He cannot escape responsibility for the state of the nation. The nation is not in good shape. Many of us are suffering. He should know that,” Onaiyekan stated.
The respected cleric further prayed for divine intervention in overcoming insecurity across the country, saying Nigerians deserved to live and move freely without fear.
“May God help us to overcome insecurity so we can live freely and move freely in this country like other people are moving freely in their own countries,” he added.
Onaiyekan also emphasised the importance of religious harmony, thanking God that Nigeria remains a country where citizens are free to practise and celebrate their faiths.
“We thank God first that we live in a nation where every religion is free to celebrate their festivities,” he said.
He noted that Christians were joining Muslims in celebrating Eid-el-Kabir, describing the festival as a reminder of the sacrifices and obedience demonstrated by Prophet Abraham in both the Bible and the Qur’an.
Addressing Muslims directly, Onaiyekan said, “Happy Eid-el-Kabir. May God bless you. May God accept your sacrifices as He accepted Abraham’s sacrifice. May peace, joy and harmony reign in our country.”
