Eid-al-Adha: Alaafin calls for righteousness to restore peace, stability in Nigeria
By Adejayan Gbenga
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has urged Nigerians to embrace righteousness and moral discipline as a pathway to achieving lasting peace and stability in the country.
The monarch made the call in his Eid-al-Adha message issued through his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, ahead of the Muslim festival celebration.
According to Oba Owoade, the essence of religion, as revealed through the prophets of God, is complete submission to the will of Allah and obedience to divine instructions.
He further noted that true religion goes beyond rituals and is reflected in living according to God’s commandments and promoting goodness in society.
The Alaafin noted that many of the challenges confronting Nigeria, including insecurity and economic hardship, are connected to declining moral values and a weakening sense of accountability to God.
He also expressed concern over growing mistrust among ethnic and religious groups, warning that such divisions continue to threaten national unity and peaceful coexistence.
The traditional ruler said the life of Prophet Ibrahim symbolises obedience, sacrifice, charity and love for humanity, describing those virtues as essential ingredients for national development and harmony. He added that Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son demonstrated total submission to God, which was rewarded with divine mercy.
Oba Owoade urged Nigerians to use the Eid-al-Adha celebration as a period for sober reflection, kindness and renewed commitment to righteous living. He stressed that faith, sacrifice and obedience to God remain critical to achieving sustainable peace, progress and stability in the country.
