Eid-el-Fitr: ALGON Urges Unity, Rule of Law, Stronger Local Governance

The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, compassion and respect for the rule of law as Muslims across the country celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, the National President of ALGON, Bello Lawal, extended warm felicitations to the Muslim faithful, describing Eid-el-Fitr as a sacred occasion that reflects the enduring values of empathy, selflessness and compassion as exemplified by the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SWT).

Lawal said the lessons of Ramadan fasting, prayer and charity—should inspire Nigerians to work collectively towards building a peaceful, just and prosperous nation.

“At a time when communities are grappling with insecurity, hunger, banditry and kidnapping, there is a need for collective action driven by the spirit of sacrifice and compassion demonstrated during Ramadan,” he said.

He urged citizens to channel these values into fostering peaceful coexistence and national unity, stressing that every Nigerian deserves to live in dignity and security.

The ALGON president also expressed solidarity with families and communities affected by violence and insecurity across the country, offering prayers for the repose of those who lost their lives.

“We mourn with the affected families and pray that Almighty Allah grants the departed eternal rest in Aljanna Firdaus and comforts those left behind,” he added.

On governance, Lawal reiterated the association’s commitment to promoting justice and strengthening democratic institutions at the grassroots level. He acknowledged progress made following the July 11, 2024 Supreme Court judgment on local government autonomy, noting that the ruling had enhanced governance in some states.

However, he expressed concern over what he described as uneven implementation of the judgment, urging relevant authorities to uphold the rule of law to ensure fairness, equity and effective service delivery at the local government level.

According to him, strengthening local government administration remains critical to addressing insecurity and accelerating development, particularly in rural communities.

“Closing the development gap must begin at the grassroots. Every act of crime originates from a local community, and empowering local governments is key to tackling these challenges and fostering sustainable growth,” Lawal said.

He called for the collective support of all stakeholders in building a viable and autonomous local government system capable of meeting the needs of citizens.

The ALGON president also commended Nigerians for their continued trust in the association’s efforts toward rural development, while appreciating the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, the judiciary, legislature and other stakeholders in advancing local governance.

Lawal urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their commitment to national unity and development, noting that the country’s progress depends on shared responsibility and adherence to the principles of justice and good governance.

“Together, we can build a Nigeria defined by unity, justice and prosperity,” he said.