Happy Eid el Fitri

Islamic faithfuls in Nigeria will today join their
colleagues across the world to celebrate Eid-
el Fitri, a major sign post in the Islamic calendar. It is a time to thank Allah for a successful Ramadan and a period to practise generosity to others.
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims abstained from food and other self serving activities.  They also studied the Quran and prayed together with a view to spiritualising themselves and attracting the blessing of Allah.
As they come out in their best attires to celebrate Eid el Fitri, we congratulate all true Muslims for this great spiritual feat. It is not easy to deny oneself of food for 30 days, but it is most commendable to have done so to the glory of Allah.
We have no doubt that Ramadan has taught faithfuls the virtue of selflessness, patience, holiness and the oneness of mankind.  Ramadan represents an example that Muslims and all who seek to work with their God must practise always and through the year.
In spite of the differences in the religions of the world, they are united in many practices, one of which is the call to fast.  The spiritual uplifting that comes with the exercise is invaluable.  The humbling effect it brings when people take time to seek the face of God is simply wonderful.
At no other time would it be truer that indeed Islam is a religion of peace and love for neighbour.  Years ago, even faithful of other religions looked forward to Eid-el Fitri because of the ‘sadaqat’ (the sharing of food and materials).  It was the expression of love that made the difference in faith a none issue.
The Tide is happy that we still have true Muslims who can keep the faith of the fathers.  The spirit that encouraged mutual co-existence with all men must also return if anyone truly fears the creator.  As before, Muslims must take seriously the commands of Allah in relation to peaceful co-existence.
In the recent past, some misguided persons have tended to mis-represent Islam.  They have given expression to the doctrine of hate, bloodshed and divisiveness.  They have done everything to bring shame to the faith and suspicion of every Muslim.
But the sustained rejection of such extremists by the Muslim  nation and indeed, the attack and killing of Muslims by the gang, that pretended to be acting in accordance with the will of Allah, has made clear the fact that Islam is not the enemy of the nation.
Even so, Muslim faithfuls must go the extra mile to work for the peace of our time, the unity of Nigeria and the acceptance of change that precedes development in all societies.  Muslims across the country must respect the faith of others, even of their people that choose to practice other religions.
Being a religion that cuts across Nigeria and commands a huge percentage of the population, Muslims can indeed change the landscape of Nigerian politics, business and social interaction if they would internalise the virtues of Eid-el Fitri.  They can in humility and self sacrifice present an example that would become the envy of other religions.
As Nigerians mark today and tomorrow as public holidays in support of the Muslim nations, it should be another opportunity for sober reflection by all Nigerians. It is a time to bring God into the on-going crises in Nigeria and a time to decide that the country bequeathed to this generation does not crash in our hands.
Nigeria, more than ever before, looks to people of faith to provide the spiritual backing needed to overcome the raging evil in the land.  The peace and unity of the country stand to the greater interest of the black race and Africa in particular. Its destiny is tied to so much, even to the good of the ordinary Nigerians.
Like all other religions, Nigeria has been good to the due practice of Islam and adherents of the religion must use this holy period to raise Nigeria before Allah and make their joy full.  This is a period Muslims should gather and celebrate without fear, but many people will not come out to make their praise seen.
As we celebrate Eid-el Fitri, may this mark the return of peace, love and development to Nigeria.  May the ones that are aggrieved have a change of heart and may good continue to overcome evil, even in Nigeria.