By Demola Akinyemi
ILORIN—Emir of Ilorin and Chairman Kwara State Traditional Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, yesterday expressed concern over the spate of insecurity in some parts of the country even as he cancelled the traditional sallah homage (Hawa’n Barike) to the government house.
In continuation of the Eid el Fitr Sallah celebration marking the end of the month of Ramadan, the monarch in company of his Chiefs and community leaders, was expected to pay homage to the state Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, at the Government House among other activities.
However, the Emir cancelled the journey over alleged insecurity in the country.
Alhaji Sulu-Gambari noted with displeasure that the period which was meant to mark the end of the glorious month of Ramadan was used by some people to kill and maim innocent innocent people in the society.
“We have decided to celebrate this year’s sallah in low key to commiserate with the nation as well as the families of those who lost their loved ones in the disasters. We have also cancelled this year’s Sallah homage on the Governor to further express our deep concern towards happenings across Nigeria.
“Whatever happens in other states also concerns us as a people and community with high sense of humour and tolerance. We therefore pray Allah to restore peace in the country and foster unity among our people,” the Emir said.
The Emir however commended President Goodluck Jonathan for appointing Dr. Abubakar Suleiman as the Minister for National Planning, stressing that it was a sign of the significance of the community to the growth and development of the nation.
He therefore warned youths to resist all forms of temptation that can make them succumb to being used as political thugs before, during and after the forthcoming general elections.
Source: Vanguard NGR
