By Oluseye Ojo Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has urged Muslims to remain vigilant and security-conscious during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration amid rising insecurity across the country. The monarch, while congratulating Muslims on the occasion of the festival, said celebrating Eid should not overshadow the need for caution and prayers for national peace and security. Ladoja, in a statement yesterday by his Media Aide, Adeola Oloko, noted that being alive to witness another Eid-el-Kabir celebration was a rare privilege that should never be taken for granted. He explained that watching one’s back during the festivities means remaining alert and conscious of happenings within one’s environment at all times. According to the monarch, although Eid-el-Kabir is a period of joy and merriment commemorating the exemplary sacrifice and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim, Muslims must celebrate with moderation and sobriety in view of the security challenges confronting Nigeria. “Although the occasion calls for merriment, we need to celebrate it prayerfully and soberly, bearing in mind the challenges facing Nigeria such as insecurity,” the Olubadan stated. Describing Eid-el-Kabir as one of the most spiritually significant festivals in the Islamic calendar, Ladoja urged Muslims to use the occasion to pray fervently for peace, prosperity and security in Nigeria, especially as the country prepares for future elections. The foremost traditional ruler also appealed to wealthy individuals to extend love and support to the underprivileged during the celebration. He reminded the faithful that all hands are not equal, and stressed that those blessed with resources should share with and care for those facing hardship. Ladoja, who is also the Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, expressed concern over the growing wave of banditry and kidnapping in parts of the country. He particularly decried the recent abduction of students in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State and called on residents and relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts towards securing the safe and timely release of the victims. The monarch prayed for peaceful celebrations and urged Nigerians to remain united in the face of the nation’s challenges.