The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, have felicitated with Muslims across the country on the Eid-el-Kabir festival.

They, however, called for a moderate celebration due to the rise in the COVID-19 pandemic in the state.

The governor, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Gboyega Akosile, urged Nigerians to imbibe the lessons of sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim and work for the unity and progress of the nation.

Sanwo-Olu asked Lagosians to reflect on the new reality caused by the global coronavirus pandemic, saying it had altered the way we live, work and celebrate.

He said, “Traditionally, Eid-el-Kabir is marked with fanfare, where thousands of worshippers head to various designated praying grounds in their localities for special Eid prayer, followed by festive gatherings, visits to families and friends, gift exchanges, feasts among friends, neighbours and relations.

“However, these activities, which are a reflection of joy and happiness of the season, cannot hold this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Let us reflect on the last four to five months of our lives as individuals, as a state and as a nation.  We should also remember our health care workers and thousands of COVID-19 patients who would have loved to be at home to celebrate with us at this moment.”

The Speaker, in a statement, said the world should see the present predicament as a call to get closer to God through humility, respect and love for neighbours

“As we mark this celebration, let us remember our brothers and sisters in need, let us remember the true meaning of love for one another and above all, we must all draw closer to God, who knows the end from the beginning and whose grace we constantly seek,” he added.