Eid-el-Fitri: Diri Urges Bayelsa Muslims to Deepen Peace, Unity
Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has called on Muslims in the state to sustain and strengthen efforts toward peace-building, unity, and harmonious coexistence as they celebrate this year’s Eid al-Fitr.
The governor made the call during a Ramadan dinner hosted for the Muslim community at Government House in Yenagoa, marking the end of the month-long fast.
Represented by his deputy, Peter Akpe, Diri emphasized the need for adherents of Islam to reflect the core values of their faith, including love for humanity, tolerance, forgiveness, and compassion.
He commended the Muslim community for their contributions to peaceful coexistence in the state but urged them to take more deliberate steps toward promoting actionable peace.
“Bayelsa has been adjudged one of the most peaceful states in the country. We urge you to consolidate this status by continuing to demonstrate love and peaceful conduct in all your engagements,” he said.
The governor stressed that peace remains a fundamental requirement for development, noting that no society can achieve meaningful progress in an atmosphere of fear and conflict. He also reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusivity, stating that the government does not discriminate along religious lines.
Responding to requests presented by the Muslim community, including the provision of a state secretariat and an 18-seater bus, Diri assured that the government would consider them based on available resources.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters, Rev. Godspower Asingba, described Ramadan as a significant spiritual exercise that fosters renewal and discipline. He noted that the state government had consistently supported the Muslim faithful with food items and financial assistance during the fasting period.
Also speaking, Acting Vice President General of the Bayelsa State Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Yahaya Okee, expressed gratitude to God for the successful completion of the Ramadan fast. He described the Eid al-Fitr celebration as a period of spiritual fulfillment, reconciliation, and thanksgiving.
Okee also appreciated the Diri-led administration for its continued support, particularly in providing food items and cash gifts during festive periods, while appealing for the rehabilitation of the Muslim community’s secretariat in the state.
The event underscored the importance of interfaith harmony and the role of religious communities in sustaining peace and development in Bayelsa State.
