Gov. Simon Lalong of Plateau has urged Muslims to pray for an end to the Coronavirus and the progress of the state, as they celebrated Eid-el-Fitr.
The governor in a statement by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr Makut Macham on Saturday in Jos, urged them to intensify prayers as the pandemic had interrupted normal activities and economic prosperity.
According to him, the challenges of COVID-19 will linger for a long time and will require lifestyles that are commensurate with the teachings of the people’s faiths, as people and governments work together to recover from its effects.
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The governor rejoiced with Muslims as they marked the religious event in a solemn way, resulting from the pandemic while congratulating them for successfully concluding the Ramadan fast, which was a significant injunction of the Islamic Faith.
“While this year’s Eid-el-Fitr may be celebrated in solemnity and privacy of your homes, the occasion nonetheless, presents the opportunity for our Muslims brothers and sisters to reflect on the spiritual benefits accruing from their fasting and prayers,” he said.
The governor urged them to apply the spiritual benefits of Ramadan to their lifestyle, to ensure a better society where love, peace and tranquillity existed.
Lalong appealed to Muslims to continue to cooperate with the government, by observing all regulations put in place to curb the spread of the disease.
He stressed the need for them to observe social distancing, personal hygiene, use face masks and stay at home, especially as the state was witnessing community transmission in some areas.
He urged Muslims to reach out to the less privileged members of the society and people of other faiths, to foster bonds of friendship and brotherhood that promoted tolerance, peace and solidarity.