Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has called on Muslim faithful to use the occasion of Eid-el-Fitri to promote love, unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
Diri made the call on Thursday during a Ramadan dinner hosted for the Muslim community at Government House, Yenagoa, marking the end of the month-long fast.
Represented by his deputy, Peter Akpe, the governor urged adherents of Islam to demonstrate love for God and humanity, embrace forgiveness, and exhibit compassion and peaceful conduct, which he described as core teachings of the faith.
He also tasked them on the need for self-reflection, particularly in the area of peace-building, stressing that sustainable development could only thrive in an atmosphere of peace.
“On behalf of the governor, His Excellency Senator Douye Diri, I thank you for your role in promoting peaceful coexistence in the state. But we urge you to move further by demonstrating actionable peace,” he said.
Diri noted that Bayelsa had earned a reputation as one of the most peaceful states in the country and encouraged the Muslim community to sustain and strengthen that status through their conduct and contributions.
“We urge you to reflect on the importance of peace because without peace, there can be no development. When people live in fear, purpose cannot be achieved. Endeavour to make peace within and outside your religion in all you do. This government does not segregate,” he added.
The governor also assured the community that their requests, including the provision of a state secretariat and an 18-seater bus, would be considered in line with available resources.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters, Godspower Asingba, described Ramadan as a significant period in the Islamic calendar dedicated to spiritual rejuvenation.
He commended the state government for its continued support to the Muslim community, noting that food items and financial assistance were provided during the fasting period.
Speaking on behalf of the المسلمين, Acting Vice President General of the Bayelsa State Council for Islamic Affairs, Yahaya Okee, expressed gratitude to God for granting them the opportunity to witness and complete the Ramadan fast.
Okee said the Eid-el-Fitri celebration symbolises spiritual growth, reconciliation, and gratitude, while also appreciating the Diri administration for its support, particularly the provision of food items and cash gifts during festive periods.
He, however, appealed to the state government to rehabilitate the council’s secretariat to enhance its operations.
