Thousands of Muslim faithfuls trooped to the Ile-Oodua Palace of the Ooni of Ife and Natural Father the Oduduwa race worldwide, Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi,CFR, Ojaja Ii at the ancient city of Ile-Ife on Friday to pay a Sallah homage to the Chairman of the South Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council(SNTRC) as part of the Eid-ul-Adha celebrations.
A large turnout of Islamic faithfuls, scholars, traditional chiefs and residents, who converged to mark the annual festival with prayers, greetings and royal blessings.
Addressing the congregation, Ooni Ogunwusi felicitated with the Muslim in Ile-Ife and Nigeria on the successful completion of this year’s Hajj rites and the symbolic slaughtering of rams, which marks the Eid-ul-Adha.
“As we celebrate today, may we witness many more celebrations. May the Almighty spare our lives and grant us peace,” the monarch declared.
He extended special greetings to the Chief Imam of Ifeland, Alhaji AbdulSemiu AbdulHammed, acknowledging his role in advancing Islamic activities across the land.
“I am always happy to see you,. God loves unity, and it is only through unity that we can thrive. Let us continue to embrace and promote unity among ourselves regardless of our differences, ” Ooni said.
The traditional ruler, who has consistently supported inter-religious harmony in Yorubaland, emphasised the importance of peaceful coexistence among followers of all faiths, especially at a time when the nation is in dire need of healing.
Speaking earlier, the Chief Imam of Ifeland, Alhaji AbdulSemiu AbdulHammed, lauded the monarch for his humility and inclusive leadership, which he said has continued to foster peaceful relations between traditional institutions and religious communities.
“We are grateful to Kabiyesi for opening the palace to the Muslim community during this sacred celebration.
“We pray that Almighty Allah continues to bless the Ooni with prosperity, wisdom and long life,” the Imam said.