NIGERIA MUSLIMS GET FREE RIDE FOR EID

The free ride would benefit both Muslims and non-Muslims alike

Abuja, 8 Dzulhijjah 1436/22 September 2015 (MINA) – As Muslims all over the globe prepare to celebrate `Eid al- Adha, Nigeria’s Osun State government is offering free train services for citizens travelling to enjoy the spiritual feast with their families.

“The train would, by 11.00 AM on Tuesday the 22nd and Wednesday, 23rd to convey people from Lagos to Osogbo. The return journey to Lagos from Osogbo will be on Sunday the 27th by 11 AM,” Semiu Okanlawon, the director of Bureau of Communication and Strategy in the Office of Osun Governor, told Daily Trust on Monday, September 21. OnIslam.net quoted by Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA) as reporting.

Okanlawon added that the gesture by the Governor Abdul Rauf Aregbesola-led administration is aimed at facilitating a stress-free homecoming for the people during the festival.

He also stressed that the free train service is in continuation of the commitment of Aregbesola’s administration towards making life more meaningful for the people of the state.

He added that the free train ride would be offered between Tuesday and Wednesday and urged indigenes of Osun state to maximize the opportunity.

The free ride would benefit both Muslims and non-Muslims alike, he noted, adding that the initiative was part of the program which started since 2011 to serve those who are not indigenes too.

While wishing `Eid Al-Adha holiday makers a successful journey back home, Osun government urged them to take advantage of their homecoming to have a feel of the ongoing developments of the state.

“We encourage holiday makers to use this opportunity to update themselves about the developments that are taking place in the state,” the statement read.

`Eid Al-Adha, or “Feast of Sacrifice”, is one of the two most important Islamic celebrations, together with `Eid Al-Fitr.

After special prayers to mark the day, Muslims offer unhiyah, a ritual that reminds of the great act of sacrifice Prophet Ibrahim and his son Isma`eel (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon them) were willing to make for the sake of God

Festivities and merriment then start with visits to the homes of friends and relatives.

Traditionally, everyone wears new clothes for `Eid, and the children look forward to gifts and the traditional `ediya (cash).

`Eid Al-Adha marks the end of annual hajj. (T/P007/R03)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)