Tinubu preaches peace, condemns banditry at Lagos Eid prayer

President Bola Tinubu has said that no religion encourages banditry, violence, or the killing of innocent people.

Tinubu made the statement on Wednesday after observing the Eid-el-Kabir prayers at Dodan Barracks in Lagos.

According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said the Eid-el-Kabir celebration teaches Muslims the values of sacrifice, obedience, love for humanity, and total submission to the will of Allah, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim.

He urged Nigerians to reject banditry, ethnic hatred, and all forms of discrimination.

“Nowhere in the holy teachings does it say you should engage in banditry or take human life,” Tinubu said.

“The sacrifice we speak about teaches us the importance and value of human life, as seen in the story where a child was replaced with an animal.”

The President also encouraged citizens to show kindness, generosity, and love during the festive season.

“We thank Almighty Allah for granting us another opportunity to witness Eid-el-Kabir,” he said.

“There should be no discrimination, no ethnic division, and no hatred. We must share love and remain generous to one another in a manner that reflects the values of humanity and our nation.”

Tinubu further urged Nigerians to obey the rule of law and remain tolerant despite ethnic, religious, and political differences.

He stressed that Nigeria’s diversity should serve as a source of unity rather than division, adding that peace and national development must remain the country’s priority.

In his sermon, the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Sulaimon Abou-Nolla, called on Muslims to fear Allah and uphold the virtues of unity, sacrifice, and generosity.

Among those who joined the President for the Eid prayers were Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, former Governor Babatunde Fashola, the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.