Chief Edward Onoja's Sallah Message to Muslims and the entire good people of Kogi State »

‘As the world commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s life of sacrifice and patient obedience to Almighty God this Eid-El-Kabir, it is with a great deal of pleasure that I extend my warm greetings to the Muslim Ummah and to all Kogites.

‘I send special salutations to the Chief Driver of the New Kogi Dream, His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, my siamese twin, boss and bosom friend.

‘This year’s celebrations present us with an opportunity to reflect soberly on the state of our world, our country and our beloved State so that we can whole-heartedly thank God for the trials we have faced and the triumphs we have received.

‘Our state has an abundance of human and natural resources as gracious endowments on us by our Creator. We must not forget to thank Him for them while praying for His wisdom to rest on us all and help us transform these manifold blessings into tangible wealth for our progress and that of our posterity.

‘While it is true that the cities of Mecca and Medina which used to be melting pots for millions of pilgrims at this time for the ritual of the Hajj have had to scale back on foreign arrivals due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it is undeniable that the Almighty is Omnipresent and will hear the prayers of the faithful from everywhere.

‘Government, as a matter of responsibility, reaffirms her commitment to combating insecurity as well as the novel coronavirus disease. Measures have been put in place to heighten security and protect the wellness of everyone in Kogi State.

‘Let us remember as we celebrate that strict public health guidelines are still in place and there is an incumbent duty on each of us to observe the guidelines required to protect ourselves and others from this deadly disease.

‘We must keep before our minds at all times the real essence of the Eid-el-Kabir which is to recall and be challenged by the willingness, steadfastness, sacrifice, obedience and devotion to Allah as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.

‘On this joyous occasion therefore, I appeal to all Kogites to rise against the odds, put prejudices aside and strengthen the bonds of friendship, love and unity in our beloved State.

‘May Allah in His infinite mercy accept your ibadah and may He fill your lives, homes, families, businesses, communities and our dear State with his barakah. Ameen.’

Eid Mubarak!

CHIEF EDWARD ONOJA(CIK)
Deputy Governor of Kogi State
29 July, 2020.