LAGOS, NIGERIA — As the crescent moon marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, the Ayedero of Yorubaland, Hon. Shina Peller, has issued a stirring call for national rebirth, declaring that Nigeria stands at a “pivotal point” where only the collective character of its citizens can determine its future trajectory.

In an expansive Eid-ul-Fitr address delivered to the Muslim Ummah and the wider Nigerian public, the former federal lawmaker described the 2026 Ramadan season as a profound journey of spiritual reflection and self-discipline.

He maintained that the thirty days of fasting and prayer served a higher purpose than personal devotion, acting as a crucible to strengthen the bond with the Almighty and renew a national commitment to the virtues of patience and empathy.

According to the Ayedero, the essence of Eid-ul-Fitr extends far beyond the festivities of the day. He framed the celebration as a symbolic “triumph of faith over desire,” offering a timely reminder to a nation facing complex socio-economic hurdles that sacrifice and steadfastness are the primary tools required to overcome even the most daunting challenges.

“In a world that often feels divided, the lessons of Ramadan teach us the importance of brotherhood, charity, and looking out for the most vulnerable among us,” Hon. Peller stated. He further challenged Nigerians to internalize the spirit of Zakat (charity) and Taqwa (the fear of God) as active components of their daily lives, rather than treating them as seasonal observations.

Addressing the country’s internal dynamics, the renowned peace advocate emphasized that Nigeria’s diversity remains its greatest untapped strength. He argued that regardless of faith or background, the universal values of love and mutual respect are the only foundations upon which a secure and stable environment can be built.

He called on all citizens to use this sacred period to pray fervently for the peace and prosperity of their motherland, noting that the opportunity for every citizen to thrive depends on a unified national front.

Hon. Peller concluded his address with a call for moderation during the celebrations. He urged the faithful to share the joy of the season with their neighbors and the less privileged, ensuring that the spirit of Ibadah is reflected in acts of kindness.

He prayed that Allah (SWT) would accept the fasting and prayers of the Ummah and fill every Nigerian home with peace and prosperity.

Shina Peller, as the Ayedero of Yorubaland, a title meaning “The Promoter of Peace,” is a leading voice for youth empowerment, social justice, and national unity.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has congratulated muslims on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid El-Fitr, marking the end of a period devoted to fasting, prayer and spiritual reflection.

In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman, Comrade Akeem Abas and the Secretary Temidayo Adu, the leadership of the council described the Eid celebration as a time of renewed faith, unity and compassion among adherents of Islamic tenets, urging them to sustain the virtues imbibed during Ramadan.

The union acknowledged the sacrifices, discipline and perseverance of members who observed the Ramadan fast, while diligently balancing their spiritual obligations with professional responsibilities.

The statement emphasises the importance of peace, tolerance and mutual coexistence, noting that the lessons of sacrifice, discipline and charity should continue to guide personal conduct and societal relationships beyond the festive period.

The Council called on residents of Oyo State to use the occasion to pray for the peace, stability and progress of the state and the nation at large, especially in the face of current security and socio-economic challenges.

Oyo NUJ urged government at all levels to remain committed to policies and programmes that will improve the welfare of citizens, and promote inclusive development across all sectors, while encouraging Nigerians to extend love and support to the less privileged during the celebration, stressing that acts of kindness and generosity remain central to the teachings of Islam and essential for building a more harmonious society.

*The Chairman of The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI), Mr Tunji Oladejo, felicitates Muslim faithfuls on the successful completion of this year’s Ramadan and the joy of Eid-el-Fitr. He prays that the season’s devotion is met with answered prayers, personal accomplishments for families, peace around the globe and development at home, in a release signed by the Forum’s Secretary, Prince Kola Amoo Adelakin.*

“Ramadan teaches sacrifice; Eid reminds us to spread that goodwill,” Oladejo said. “As Ibadan sons and daughters — Muslims and non-Muslims, we share one city. May this Eid strengthen neighbourliness, ease hardship and quicken progress in Ibadanland and Nigeria”. He pleads with Muslims to hold fast to Ramadan’s teachings — discipline, devotion and peaceful coexistence with people of other faiths.

Oladejo notes TPFI’s commitment to spiritual and civic talks, and community outreach urging residents to observe safety in celebration, care for the needy and keep interfaith dialogue alive.

Two-term Chairman of Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Mogaji Olugbenga Opadotun (aka Ekuro), has congratulated Comrade Akeem Abas on what he described as his remarkable first “100 Days” in office as Oyo NUJ Chairman.

Opadotun in a congratulatory message he personally signed and made available to journalists, said every discerning mind will applaud the energy, zeal and passion with which he has carried out his duties since assumption of office.

According to him, the various training programmes organized for members of the union will enable them to discharge their duties efficiently and effectively, stating that his welfare programme aimed at ameliorating the effect of the current economic challenges on members is also yielding positive results.

The statement read, “I write to rejoice with you and other members of your cabinet on your remarkable first “100 Days” in office.

“There is no doubt that the various training programmed organized for members of the union will enable them to discharge their duties efficiently and effectively.

“Your welfare programme aimed at ameliorating the effect of the current economic challenges on members is also yielding positive results.

“I can also say the same of your infrastructural face-lift of the Press Centre.

“We appreciate these and many other programmes in the offing to sustain the leadership position of Oyo NUJ among others.”

The Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Staff Pension Board, Hon Akeem Ademola Ige has felicitated muslims around the world, Nigeria and Oyo state in particular on year 2026 EID-EL-FITR celebration.

This message was contained in a press release issued and made available to journalists.

Hon Ige advised muslim faithfuls to reflect on the lessons learnt during Ramadan by imbibing the spirit of forgiveness, giving to the less privileged in our society, be fervent in prayers, obedience to the commands of Allah, the teachings of Allah , avoid unholy acts , move closer to the holy Qur’an and be better persons.

He also urged them to use the Eid-el-fitr celebration to remember the Executive Governor of Oyo State His Excellency, Engr Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde led government in prayers and the nation at large especially during this economic hardship and insecurity situation in our country..

He said ” I, Hon Akeem Ademola Ige, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, management and staff of the Board felicitate muslims around the world, Nigeria, Oyo State and pensioners in particular on this year Eld-El-Fitr celebration. I pray that we will all celebrate many more of it on earth. I therefore appeal to our muslim brothers and sisters to celebrate in moderation”.

The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, tightened enforcement of regulations against street and roadside trading along major markets in Ibadan.

The joint operation, led by OYRLEA in collaboration with the Oyo State Environmental Task Force, the Nigeria Police Force, and Amotekun, targeted indiscriminate roadside trading. The team moved through Challenge, Oja’ba, Oje Markets, and Mokola, clearing goods displayed on road corridors, setbacks, and walkways. Obstructive items were removed, improving traffic flow and easing pedestrian movement.

Six traders were apprehended for violating roadside trading regulations and assaulting officials on duty.

Speaking through her Chief of Staff, Iyabo Akinbode Esq., the Chairperson of OYRLEA, Hon. Justice Aderonke Aderemi (Rtd.), described roadside trading as absurd, dangerous, and life-threatening. She noted that the practice contributes significantly to congestion and obstruction of public roads. Justice Aderemi insisted the operation will be sustained, emphasizing that strict adherence to environmental and traffic regulations remains non-negotiable. Arrests, she added, are part of measures to secure compliance and discourage further encroachment on public spaces.