As Muslims across Nigeria mark this year’s Eid-El-Kabir, the National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, has called for a renewed national spirit built on sacrifice, patriotism, and unity.
In a statement on Friday, Gabam said the festival offers a solemn reminder of the values that can lead Nigeria toward recovery and greatness.
“Eid-El-Kabir is a season of reflection, obedience, and selflessness. These are the very values Nigeria needs today—not just from citizens, but especially from those entrusted with leadership,” he said.
Gabam underscored the urgency of patriotic leadership, reminding public office holders that governance is a sacred trust, not a platform for personal or partisan interests.
“Leadership must uplift the people. When it fails to do so, the nation suffers. Those in power must prioritize national interest and deliver on their promises,” he stressed.
While affirming his position in the opposition, the SDP Chairman insisted that supporting the success of leaders in office is not an endorsement of failure but an act of patriotism.
“The success of our leaders is the success of the nation. We must rise above political divisions and pray for them to succeed—not for their benefit, but for the good of Nigeria,” he said.
Nonetheless, he pledged that the SDP would continue to offer constructive criticism, especially when government actions harm citizens or undermine democratic ideals.
“Our criticism is not borne out of malice. It is a reflection of our commitment to the Nigerian people. We will keep speaking out on issues like insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and youth restiveness,” Gabam declared.
He also charged Nigerians to remain active participants in the democratic process by demanding accountability, promoting justice and fairness, and making their voices count through civic engagement.
“Let us vote with conscience, speak with courage, and act with purpose. A better Nigeria is possible—but only if we all play our part,” he said.
Gabam ended with a message of peace and goodwill to the Muslim faithful and all Nigerians, urging them to let the essence of Eid—obedience, humility, and sacrifice—guide their contributions to nation-building.