LAGOS FIRST FAMILY CELEBRATES EID-EL-KABRI WITH MUSLIMS 

… Urges Vigilance, Good Hygiene Amid Cholera Outbreak

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called for increased vigilance and heightened hygiene practices in light of reported cases of cholera in Lagos and across the country. 
He urged residents to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene, emphasising the importance of clean water, proper sanitation, and safe food handling. 

The Governor who spoke at the Year 2024 Eid-el-Kabri celebration held at Lagos House Ground, Ikeja, said that efforts are being made by the State Ministry of Health to ensure that no additional death is recorded in any part of the State, just as he urged the residents to follow all necessary precautions released by the state government. 

Represented at the event by his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Governor Sanwo-Olu added that being in the rainy season implies individuals must pay cursory attention to personal hygiene, stressing that Cleanliness is one of the fundamental teachings of Islam. 

He also advised the public to seek immediate medical attention if they exhibit symptoms of cholera, such as severe diarrhea or dehydration. “By taking these precautions, we can protect our communities and prevent the spread of this potentially deadly disease”, Sanwo-Olu stated. 

The Governor encouraged Lagosians to continue living in peace, emphasising that we are united regardless of our religious differences. “There should be no division among us; let’s sustain this harmony. By working together and fostering mutual respect, we can build a stronger, more inclusive community for all”.

In the same vein, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu emphasised the contagious nature of cholera and urged Lagosians to maintain personal hygiene to prevent the spread of the disease.

She recommended drinking clean water, washing hands regularly, and practicing proper sanitation, while also encouraging immediate medical attention for anyone experiencing frequent stooling. 

“The Lagos State Government has made provision of free treatment for cholera patients in most government hospitals. If anyone experiences frequent stooling, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Please visit the nearest hospital for prompt care”, the First Lady counseled.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu seized the opportunity of the event to address issues of drug abuse and Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), advocating for increased public awareness and advocacy against the societal ills. 

She also urged residents of the State to embrace home farming as a practical solution to cope with rising food prices, highlighting its potential to promote self-sufficiency and mitigate the impact of the current economic situation.

Speaking on the theme of the event drawn from the Quran Chapter 2 Verse 131, “When his Lord said to him, “Submit!” He said, “I have submitted to the Lord of the Worlds.”, the Guest Speaker, Dr. Nosirudeen Olajide Onibon, reminded the audience of the importance of sacrifice and obedience to Allah’s will. 

He urged everyone to leverage the spiritual lessons from Hajj and Eid-el-Kabri for societal growth and development.

Also speaking, the Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Lagos State Chapter, Bishop Stephen Adegbite acknowledged the ‘brother-sister’ relationship existing between the adherents of both Christian and Muslim religions in Lagos State. 

He added that the theme for the event reminds us that our life doesn’t belong to us, the owner can request it anytime, hence the need for everyone to live life with this consciousness that we are all answerable to a Supreme Being, which is our creator. 

Bishop Adegbite coveted prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from both Christians and Muslims, saying that the President meant well for Nigerians regardless of religious affiliation. 

The event was attended by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, members of the State Executive Council, Body of Permanent Secretaries including the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Home Affairs, Mrs. Ololade Aina, religious leaders from both Muslim and Christian groups, traditional rulers, captains of industries, political associates, among others.