‘‘As we celebrate, I sincerely believe that our nation and state (Kogi) can make rapid progress on all fronts if we re-enact the exemplary virtues, exemplified by Prophet (Abraham) Ibrahim, through his sacrifice, patience, steadfastness, generosity and obedience to Allah’s command and constituted authority.
I urge all other political leaders in the country to do the same. Let us all rise above unedifying, unpatriotic and selfish personal interests and divisive sectional agenda in the coming state election in November, 2019.
I want to urge our religious leaders to take advantage of the season and preach peace, unity and tolerance among the diverse people of Kogi State, especially now that the state is at critical political crossroads, with the electioneering process gaining momentum as the 2019 Governorship election draws nearer. I want to admonish all political leaders in the State to prioritize the well-being and progress of our dear state above all other considerations through the campaigns and the election. Kogi is the only home we have and must not be destabilized and I urge all political bigwigs to give priority to unity, political stability, peace, progress and harmony in Kogi State above personal ambition and divisive sectional agenda.
”Let us also commit ourselves more to the sustenance of democracy and political stability in the state which are essential prerequisites for the advancement of good governance, inclusive economic growth and rapid development which the state is at the moment deprived of. It’s obvious no significant progress has been made in the past four years and our dear state continues to face critical challenges in key areas. I am convinced however, that if given the opportunity as an aspirant in the forthcoming Governorship election and elected as the next Governor of the state, we will surely overcome all hindrances and fully establish a stronger, more united and prosperous state that meets the aspirations and yearnings of all of our people.
As we celebrate the Eid-El-Kabir, let us also rededicate and commit ourselves to the Holy Prophet’s injunctions of piety, honesty, charity and generosity to the less privileged, impartial leadership and true justice for all.
These virtues and lessons will surely stand our nation and state in particcular in good stead as we continue our journey towards the fulfillment of our founding fathers’ vision of a great state which is the gateway to the heart of the nation, Abuja..
May Allah’s blessings be upon all our compatriots who have undertaken the Hajj this year and on our dear country.
I wish all Nigerians, most especially the wonderful people of Kogi state pilgrims currently in the Holy Land a safe journey back home and urge them to pray for the successful conduct of the November Governorship election in the state.
On behalf of my family and loved ones, I wish the entire Muslim Ummah in Kogi State a blissful, peaceful, joyous and stupendous Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
Happy Eid-El-Kabir to you all.
Alhaji Abubakar Ibrahim.
Governorship Aspirant, Kogi State