In his Sallah message, Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto says bandits have taken over highways and farms, killing people and sacking communities.

He urged Muslims to uphold the spirit of sacrifice in dealing with one another and society at large.

On Tuesday, in a statewide broadcast in Sokoto, the governor said the Eid-el-Kabir period remained a season that symbolises sacrifice.

“For, Allah requires not our offerings for Himself. They are, rather, a practice in compassion and charity toward fellow citizens.

“Let us, in this period of rest and leisure, engage ourselves in the reflection of the divine favours we enjoy and be grateful to the almighty.”

Mr Tambuwal added, “Acts of banditry and kidnapping by recalcitrant and Godless elements have killed, sacked, and pillaged our communities and disrupted our socio-economic stability.

“More so, hostage-takers have inhibited our highways, threatening agricultural activities and the flow of our businesses and economy.”

The governor added that the COVID-19 pandemic was “still with us” and called for the continuous observance of preventive protocols even though it had subsided in most parts of the country.

“I appeal to all of us to continue to observe all the protocols as enunciated by (world, national, and state authorities for us to continue to curtail the spread of the disease,” he said.

On the current state of insecurity in parts of the state, Mr Tambuwal appreciated the cooperation of the traditional institution and supplications of the ulama, under the guidance of the Sultan of Sokoto.

“The value and efficacy of prayers cannot be overemphasised, especially in this period of an important act of worship,” said the governor.

(NAN)