The Etsu Lokoja, HRH Emmanuel Akamisoko Dauda-Shelika, Nyamkpa IV, has felicitated Muslim faithful in Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria, and across the world on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha, urging reflection on sacrifice, unity, and prayer for national leaders.
In his Sallah message released on Wednesday in Lokoja by Alh. Abdullahi Ndashitte Abubakar, National President of Nupe Natives of Lokoja, the traditional ruler described Eid Al-Adha as a symbolic and prominent event in Islam that embodies “the most difficult and extreme personal sacrifices” in obedience to Allah.
Dauda-Shelika prayed that Allah accepts the prayers and acts of Ibada offered by worshippers during the celebration.
“As we celebrate, let us remember to emulate our patriarch, Prophet Ibrahim, by being willing to sacrifice for others, most especially for our families, neighbors and the nation at large,” the monarch said.
He noted that the call to sacrifice was particularly urgent given that “the entire world is going through trials.”
The Etsu Lokoja stressed that true happiness lies not in material acquisition or status, but in the willingness to give up personal comfort for the good of others.
He urged citizens to shun greed and self-aggrandizement, which he described as “the bane of evils in our society.”
He also called on Muslims and all Nigerians to use the occasion to pray for leaders at all levels.
Specifically, he asked for divine wisdom and the fear of God for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Kogi State Governor Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo and his cabinet, and Lokoja Local Government Chairman Hon. Abdullahi Adamu and his counterparts across the state.
“We should pray that God will grant them wisdom and the fear of God to continue to push for peace, justice and the general wellness of all citizens, especially as we face this electioneering period,” he said.
He further urged citizens to maintain decorum and civility in their conduct during the period.
The monarch devoted a portion of his message to security, asking for prayers for Nigeria’s security agencies who “are working tirelessly with their lives on the line to ensure the peace, security of life and property of citizens.”
He also called for prayers for all those in distress, asking God for their deliverance.
The monarch encouraged citizens to remain hopeful, law-abiding, and committed to the peace and well-being of one another.
“Eid Al-Adha Mubarak,” “Barika Sallah-ko Celebration,” and “As-sallamu Aleikum Waramatullah Barakatul,” the monarch said.
