By Desire Emmanuel
The Federal Government has declared Thursday and Friday, March 19 and 20, as public holidays to enable Muslims celebrate Eid-el-Fitri.
Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement in a statement signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani, on Tuesday, March 17, in Abuja.
The minister, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, extended warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations to Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the fasting during the holy month of Ramadan.
Tunji-Ojo urged Muslims to sustain the virtues of love, generosity, peace, tolerance, and sacrifice, which were emphasized during the public holidays and beyond.
He called on all Nigerians to use the public holidays and festive periods to pray for the continued peace, unity, and prosperity of the nation.
Tunji-Ojo also encouraged citizens to celebrate responsibly and extend acts of kindness to the less privileged in the society.
“The Federal Government remains committed to fostering national unity and peaceful coexistence among all Nigerians,” he said.
In a related development, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Ogun State Sector Command, has cautioned motorists against speeding, overloading and drunk driving to reduce road traffic crashes during the festivities and beyond.
The Sector Commander, Mr Akinwunmi Fasakin, gave the advice on Tuesday during a public enlightenment rally and road show for motorists at Panseke motor park and other parks in Abeokuta.
Fasakin said the sensitisation campaign, which featured a road show and public enlightenment rally, was aimed at promoting responsible driving and reducing road traffic crashes during the festive period.
The sector commander, represented by the Sector Head of Operations, Deputy Corps Commander Samuel Ogundayo, said the initiative was designed to educate motorists on the need to obey traffic regulations.
“The campaign is to reduce the risk of accidents on the roads expected to witness increased vehicular movement during the celebration,” he said.
Fasakin emphasised the dangers of speeding, overloading and drunk driving, describing speed as a “silent killer”.
“This is part of our advocacy and public enlightenment campaign. We are here to sensitise motorists to the dangers of speeding, overloading and drinking while driving.
“Our goal is to create a safe motoring environment for everyone in Ogun. We want every traveller to reach their destination safely and celebrate the festive season with their families,” he said.
