By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukeu, Warr
DELTA: Thousands of Muslims in Delta State gathered on Sunday at various prayer grounds to mark the Eid el-Fitr celebration, offering prayers for Nigeria’s unity and progress while calling on the government to address the worsening economic situation in the country.
At the Warri Central Mosque, the Chief Imam and Chairman of the Delta State League of Imams and Alfas, Alhaji Abdul Rasheed Aroyewon Ajisafe, led the congregational prayers, emphasizing the need for continued devotion beyond Ramadan.
He urged Muslims to sustain their acts of kindness and generosity even after the fasting period.
The Chief Imam said, “Ramadan teaches us patience, selflessness, and discipline. It should not end with fasting but continue in our daily lives.
The hardship in the land is undeniable, and as Muslims, we must show love by supporting those in need, especially our neighbors,” he said.
The cleric also prayed for Nigerian leaders, asking Allah to grant them wisdom and strength to govern justly. “We ask Allah to guide our leaders at all levels governors, senators, and those in authority to make decisions that will bring relief to the people,” he added.
Similarly, at the Federal College of Education, Technical Central Mosque in Asaba, worshippers dressed in vibrant attire converged to observe the prayers, led by Chief Imam Alhaji Yinusa Adekola.
He underscored the essence of patience and gratitude, urging Muslims to extend the values learned during Ramadan beyond the holy month.
He said, “The spirit of Eid should reflect in our daily interactions. We must continue to love one another, be grateful to Allah, and contribute positively to nation-building,” he said.
However, Alhaji Adekola expressed concern over Nigeria’s economic and security challenges, lamenting the rise in hunger, unemployment, and crime.
He urged the government to take urgent measures to alleviate the suffering of the people.
“There is serious hunger in the land, and unemployment is worsening. These are contributing to the rising crime rate.
“The government must act swiftly by providing jobs, improving infrastructure, and supporting the masses with necessary relief,” he stated.
He also condemned the recent gruesome killing of travelers in Uromi, Edo State, who were reportedly heading to the North for the Eid celebration. He called for improved security measures to prevent such tragedies.
“Our security agencies must do more to ensure the safety of all citizens. These senseless killings must stop, and we urge authorities to take decisive action against perpetrators,” he added.
Meanwhile, many Muslims in Asaba expressed joy for witnessing another Eid in good health, thanking Allah for a peaceful celebration.
They prayed for better days ahead and urged the government to take decisive action to ease economic hardship.
The prayer sessions were attended by notable Muslim figures, including Mrs. Muibi Mumuni Muhammed, Central Mosque Amirah; Suleiman Mogbolagade Odejide, Chairman of Warri Central Mosque; and Mr. Raji Semiu Adeniyi, General Secretary of Warri Central Mosque, among others.