By Ibrahim Bah Abdulrahman, GNA
Tema, July 9, GNA – The Tijaniyya Muslim Movement of Ghana (TMMG) has urged Muslim communities in Ghana to continue to pray for peace in the land and avoid all forms of violence as it marks the Eid-ul-Adha festival.
Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Tema on the essence of the Eid-ul-Adha festival, Alhaji Mohammed Osman Khuzaima, Executive Secretary of the Movement said, the country’s economy was not in normal times hence it demanded a form of sacrifice from all Ghanaians.
He called on Muslims to observe the Eid-ul-Adha in moderation adding that “I encourage all citizens to pray and spread the word of peace, harmony, and avoid creating unnecessary tension”.
Alhaji Khuzaima who is also the Director of Youth Development an inter-faith-based programme pleaded with the youth to avoid inciting comments that may trigger chaos in the country.
He called on political leaders to advocate for peace in the country as they seek votes noting that, the moment a political or religious leader uses hateful and insulting rhetoric their supporters particularly the youth may imitate them.
“The TMMG is pleading with political leaders to avoid using insults and words that will disrupts the peace the country has but should rather make speeches that promote peace and unity,” Alhaji Khuzaima stated.
He indicated that the prices of food have gone up, so most youths and vulnerable families becomes prey for evil doers who use them to do their dirty work.
“The cost of living has gone up with food price hiking each day, I plead with the leaders not to take advantage of the youth to incite and spread violence,” he said.
Eid-ul-Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice, is an important holiday celebrated by Muslims all over the world for a period of three days.
The Feast of Sacrifice dates from the historic event when Prophet Abraham was commanded by God, in a form of a dream vision, to sacrifice his son, Ismail.
But while he was in the act of sacrificing his son, God sent Angel Gabriel with a huge ram. Gabriel informed Abraham that his vision in his dream was fulfilled and instructed him to sacrifice the ram as a ransom for his son.
This year Eid-ul-Adha celebration is marked with a gathering in the mosque or open spaces and two units of prayers are offered which are followed by a sermon by the Imam.
GNA
