Judex Okoro, Calabar
Cross River State Governor, Sir Ben Ayade and Sen Gershom Bassey have called on Muslims to use the occasion of Eid-El- Fitr celebration to preach peaceful co-existence and unity among Nigerians.
The Governor in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Christian Ita, said  Nigerians  must use the period for a sober reflection on the state of things in the country.
While congratulating the  Muslims Ummah for completing one of the Five Pillars of Islam, Ayade urged them  to remember that moderation is important in everything one does.
He said the poor and the less privileged people in the society must be catered for, a principle which informed his decision to exempt low income earners from taxation including the petty traders in Bogobiri Muslim Community.
“Ramadan is a month of sacrifice, abstinence and above all, love and care for humanity. I encourage you all to be your brother’s keeper. Look out for your neighbour in the firm belief that he too will look out for you and most importantly always use your face masks while going out to contain the Spread of Covid-19 disease.
“As you celebrate Eid-el-fitr, which marks the end of the Ramadan fast, I urge everyone, regardless of your religious beliefs, to continue to keep the peace and to live in unity with one another in Nigeria and particularly in Cross River State ” he stated.
Also congratulating the Muslim community in Cross River for a successful completing the Ramadan fast,  the Senator representing the southern senatorial District of Cross River state, Senator Gershom Bassey,  urged Muslims in the state to continue to live in peace and harmony with others for the benefit of all Nigerians.
Sen Bassey said: “I congratulate the Muslims on their successful completion of the thirty days of Ramadan fast and expresses the belief that the spiritual exercise will reposition them for greater service to God and humanity .
“At this critical period, Nigeria needed more prayers as the country and the world  at large are facing most trying moments following the outbreak of COVID-19. Therefore, the celebration of Eid-El-Fitr should be dedicated to reconciliation, unity, peace and love among Nigerians. Besides, it should be used to strengthen our aged-long bond of nationhood  and friendship,” the Senator stated.