As Muslims across the world celebrate Eid-ul-Adha 1447 AH, the Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has called on leaders in Nigeria and globally to confront worsening insecurity, economic hardship and humanitarian crises threatening millions of lives.
In a strongly worded Eid message, the organisation said the festival should serve as a period of reflection on sacrifice, justice, compassion and shared humanity rather than mere ritual celebration.
The statement comes at a time when many Nigerians are grappling with rising insecurity, high living costs and uncertainty, while conflicts in different parts of the world, especially in Palestine, continue to generate global concern.
MPAC noted that Eid-ul-Adha remains one of Islam’s most profound spiritual events, commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command.
According to the organisation, the festival teaches lessons of faith, perseverance and compassion, values it said are urgently needed in today’s troubled world.
The group also highlighted the significance of the ongoing Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah, where millions of Muslims from diverse racial, social and economic backgrounds gather annually in worship.
Describing Hajj as one of the strongest symbols of human equality, MPAC said the pilgrimage demonstrates how humanity can unite beyond social status, nationality and wealth.
However, the organisation expressed concern that many Nigerians have been unable to fully experience the joy of Eid due to worsening insecurity across the country.
According to MPAC, kidnapping, banditry and violent attacks have continued to create fear among citizens, making travel unsafe for many families seeking reunion during the festive season.
The organisation further lamented the harsh economic realities facing households, saying rising living costs and financial pressure have left many families struggling to cope.
It urged government authorities at all levels to prioritise policies capable of restoring security, protecting lives and improving the economic wellbeing of citizens.
Beyond Nigeria, MPAC also condemned the humanitarian situation in Palestine, describing the crisis as a moral challenge to the global community.
Signed by Disu Kamor, the organisation decried the destruction of homes, hospitals, schools and refugee shelters in Palestinian territories, noting that innocent civilians, including women and children, continue to suffer under violence and occupation.
“For the people of Palestine, this is yet another Eid under siege,” the statement said.
MPAC called on people of conscience around the world to continue speaking out against oppression and injustice, warning that silence in the face of suffering amounts to complicity.
Despite the difficult realities confronting many societies, the organisation maintained that Eid-ul-Adha remains a message of hope and resilience.
Drawing lessons from the lives of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), Sayyidah Hajar and Prophet Ismail (AS), MPAC said faith and perseverance remain essential in overcoming trials and building a better society.
The organisation also offered prayers for pilgrims performing Hajj from Nigeria and other countries, asking Allah to accept their worship and grant them safe return to their families.
MPAC urged Muslims to move beyond symbolic sacrifice by embracing responsible leadership, stronger family values, compassionate communities and collective efforts toward a more just and peaceful society.