Date: 2014-07-30

The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman Kwara State Traditional Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, yesterday expressed concern over the growing spate of insecurity in some parts of the country even as he cancelled the traditional sallah homage (Hawa'n Barike) to the government house.

In continuation of the Eid el Fitr celebrations marking the end of the month of Ramadan, the monarch in company of his Chiefs and community leader, is expected to pay homage on the State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, at the state government house among other activities.

The cancellation according to the Emir was not unconnected to the porus state of the nation and the numerous attacks that occurred before and during Sallah celebration in some parts of the country stressing that such actions are not only condemnable but also uncharitable to the well-being of Nigerians.

Alhaji Sulu-Gambari noted with displeasure that the period which was meant to mark the end of the glorious month of Ramadan was used by some people to cause yet another catastrophe on wellbeing of some innocent souls.

"We have decided to celebrate this year's sallah in low key to commiserate with the nation as well as the families of those who lost their loved ones in the disasters. We have also cancelled this year's Sallah homage on the Governor to further express our deep concern towards happenings across Nigeria.

"Whatever happens in other states also concerns us as a people and community with high sense of humour and tolerance. We therefore prayed Allah to restore peace into the country and foster unity among our people", the Emir said.

The Emir however commended President Goodluck Jonathan for appointing Dr. Abubakar Suleiman as the Minister for National Planning stressing that it is a sign of the significance of the community to the growth and development of the nation.

He therefore warned youths to resist all sorts of temptation that can make them succumb to being used as political thugs before, during and after the forthcoming general elections.