By Ibrahim Kilani
Despite initial uncertainties surrounding this year’s Eid-el-Fitr celebrations in the Akoko area of Ondo State, Muslim faithful turned out in large numbers at various Eid prayer grounds to observe the two-rakat prayers.
Reports from The Pivot Online correspondent, Ibrahim Kilani, confirmed that security was well-coordinated at prayer venues across Arigidi, Erusu, Akungba, Semusemu, Ikare, Ogbagi, and Ugbe Akoko.
At the Erusu Akoko prayer ground, the Chief Imam, Sheikh Razaki Aliu, admonished Muslims to uphold the virtues cultivated during Ramadan. He warned against reverting to sinful behaviors such as alcohol consumption, backbiting, stinginess, and neglecting charity to the needy. He also urged the faithful to continue praying for Nigeria and its leaders, emphasizing the need for divine intervention in national affairs.
Meanwhile, market women in the Akoko area expressed concerns over poor sales, attributing the low patronage to the high cost of essential food items such as pepper, tomatoes, and other cooking ingredients. Many lamented that the rising cost of living had dampened the usual festive shopping spree associated with Sallah celebrations.
Despite these economic challenges, the Eid prayers were conducted peacefully, with worshippers expressing gratitude for witnessing the end of Ramadan.
