Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has called on religious leaders and their followers to leverage the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations to promote love, unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
Diri made the remarks on Friday while hosting members of the Muslim community to a state dinner at Government House, Yenagoa, marking the Eid-el-Fitr festival.
Represented at the event by his deputy, Mr. Peter Akpe, the governor urged Muslims to show love for God and humanity, practice forgiveness, and demonstrate peace and compassion in their daily lives.
He stressed that faithful adherents should reflect on their personal conduct, particularly regarding peace-building, noting that meaningful development is impossible without peace.
Diri congratulated Muslims on completing the Ramadan fast and encouraged them to uphold the virtues of love, peace, and sacrifice, as taught by Prophet Mohammed.
“On behalf of the governor, I thank you for promoting peaceful coexistence in the state. We urge you to demonstrate actionable peace and strengthen harmony across communities.
”Bayelsa is regarded as one of the most peaceful states, and we expect the Muslim community to deepen love and peaceful conduct.
”Without peace, there can be no development. People will live in fear and cannot achieve their purpose. Endeavour to make peace within and beyond your faith in all you do.
”This government does not segregate,” he said.
Responding to specific requests, including the provision of a secretariat and an 18-seater bus, Diri assured the community that these would be considered in line with available resources.
Special Adviser on Religious Matters, Rev. Godspower Asingba, described Ramadan as a significant period for spiritual renewal in Islam and highlighted the government’s support, including food items and financial assistance at the start of the fasting period.
Acting Vice President-General of the Bayelsa Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Yahaya Okee, thanked God for enabling Muslims to complete Ramadan successfully.
According to Okee, Eid-el-Fitr symbolizes spiritual growth, reconciliation, and gratitude both to God and to the Diri administration for its support.
He praised the government’s assistance, particularly food items and cash gifts during festive periods, and appealed for the rehabilitation of the Muslim community’s secretariat.
