Nigerians should remember the poor and needy in this season of celebrations – Arapasopo

This year’s Eid-el-Kabir holds today. Friends and families are expected to join together in merriment, it is important not to lose sight of the true meaning of this special occasion and the spirit of sacrifice it represents. The day is meant to multiply good deeds by bringing happiness and pleasure to the hearts of other Muslims, by helping and supporting the poor and needy, and by getting involved in pastimes that emphasize the strong and serious Islamic character.

What that suggests is that the socio-economic conditions of the country as well as the security challenges that we struggle with, make it compelling for adherents of Islam and indeed all Nigerians to look beyond themselves and their immediate environment. Given the level of deprivation in the land, perhaps no period in our history offers a better opportunity to share and to make sacrifices. The lessons are simple: by paying attention to the plight of the poor, we invariably place the welfare of our neighbors as important as ours; by allowing others to partake of our wealth or material possessions, we honor the One who made the provision in the first place. This happens to be at the heart of all religions, but a moral that is particularly at the heart of this festival.

At a time, when millions of our people have become refugees in the only country they call their own, the significance of Eid-el-kabir this year cannot be overemphasized. The occasion should therefore go beyond the slaughtering of rams to sharing love and material possessions not only with relatives or acquaintances, but also with the displaced, the elderly, the orphans, and other people at the margin of society, including those with special needs. It is also important that Nigerians begin to embrace and support charitable causes and there is no better occasion than today’s to make such a resolution.

This year’s celebration is coming at a particularly difficult and trying time for many Nigerians. The authorities may quote fancy statistics about the economy, but they do not reflect the living standards of the people. By far, the most worrying is the brutal killings that now define several theatres across the country. Therefore, there should be more to sharing than some portions of ram meat. What should never be forgotten in a season like this is that thousands of innocent women, children, and men have in recent years been killed, maimed, or displaced by a violent sect that propagates doctrines that are completely at variance with a religion synonymous with peace.

However, I’m appealing to the Government to find a way of eradicating poverty in our Country Nigeria. Also, let Nigerian workers have good pay.

However, Barka da Sallah to all the Muslim faithfuls. Wishing you a joyous celebration, filled with peace, happiness, and prosperity.

Comrade (Dr.) Christopher Abimbola Arapasopo
State Chairman NLC
Osun State