Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has said that it is regrettable that Muslims in the state and other parts of the country could not partake in this year’s Hajj.
Makinde made this disclosure via a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Taiwo Adisa.
The Governor in the statement made available to journalists on Monday, July 19, 2021, congratulated Muslims in the state for witnessing this year’s Eid-el-Kabir.
He maintained that it was unfortunate that Muslims in the state who intended to perform this year’s Hajj could not do so due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
Makinde, while speaking further, called for tolerance and religious harmony at all times.
He then urged Islamic faithful to reflect on the essence of the festival, which he described as the “Festival of Sacrifice.”
“It was regrettable that Muslims in the state and across the country cannot observe the 2021 Hajj in Saudi Arabia as a result of COVID-19.
“This situation should be seen as part of the sacrifice we all have to make at this time, as a way of emulating Prophet Ibrahim,” he said.
“The Eid-el-Kabir presents an opportunity for us to reflect on the faith, with which Ibrahim (Abraham) willingly agreed to sacrifice his only son and was set to let go of his prized asset, just in obedience to the command of Allah (SWT).
“But despite the current COVID-19 pandemic ravaging the whole world, the Almighty Allah (SWT) allowed Muslims in Oyo State to join the Muslim Ummah in making supplications for the forgiveness of our sins.
“I am grateful to my Muslim brothers and sisters and residents of the state for remaining steadfast despite the situation imposed on us by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
