Eid-el-Kabir: Sheik Ismail Adeyemi Kajola Explains the Significance of Eid-el-Kabir on Tungba FM Special Program
Fadeelatus-Sheikh Al-Imaam Al-Mudeer Ismail Adeyemi Ibrahim, the Mudeer of Ma’had Ta’aleem Arabic and Islamic School, Ikosi Ketu, Lagos, and Chief Imam of Kajola Central Mosque, delivered an enlightening discourse on the importance and significance of Eid-el-Kabir during a special program on Tungba FM aired on 6th June 2025. The program, monitored by starnigerianews.com, highlighted the spiritual, historical, and communal aspects of the celebration, urging Muslims worldwide to embrace the core values of sacrifice, unity, and compassion.
The Spiritual and Historical Significance of Eid-el-Kabir
Sheikh Ismail Adeyemi Ibrahim began by recounting the divine trial of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who demonstrated unwavering faith when commanded by Allah to sacrifice his son, Ismail (AS). At the last moment, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram, symbolizing divine mercy and the reward of obedience. This act, he explained, is the foundation of Eid-el-Kabir (also known as Eid al-Adha), which Muslims commemorate through animal sacrifice (Udhiyah).
He emphasized that the festival is not merely about feasting but about embodying the principles of submission to Allah, charity, and communal harmony. “The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts for family, friends, and the less privileged ensuring that no one is left out in the celebration,” he noted .
Preparing for the Celebration: Guidelines on Sacrificial Animals
The revered cleric provided practical guidance on selecting and preparing rams for Eid-el-Kabir, stressing that the animal must meet Islamic standard healthy, of appropriate age, and free from defects. He also advised Muslims to ensure humane slaughtering practices in line with Islamic teachings .
Promoting Interfaith Harmony and Social Responsibility
Sheikh Ibrahim called on Muslims to extend love and kindness to people of other faiths, reinforcing Islam’s message of peace and coexistence. “Eid-el-Kabir teaches us selflessness; we must share our blessings and foster unity in our diverse communities,” he said .
Listener Engagement: Questions and Contributions
The program featured an interactive segment where listeners phoned in with questions. One caller inquired about alternatives to animal sacrifice for those unable to afford it. The cleric clarified that while sacrifice is highly recommended, charitable donations (Sadaqah) are acceptable for those facing financial constraints . Another listener sought advice on balancing festive joy with religious solemnity, to which Sheikh Ibrahim responded, “Celebrate with gratitude, but remember the essence worship, remembrance of Allah, and caring for others.”
Conclusion: A Call for Reflection and Unity
In his closing remarks, the Chief Imam urged Muslims to use Eid-el-Kabir as an opportunity for spiritual renewal and national solidarity. He echoed President Tinubu’s recent message, encouraging Nigerians to remain hopeful and resilient amid challenges, drawing parallels between Ibrahim’s trials and the nation’s current struggles .
The Tungba FM special program served as a timely reminder of Eid-el-Kabir’s deeper meaning, blending religious instruction with community-building principles. As Muslims worldwide celebrate, Sheikh Ismail Adeyemi Ibrahim’s words resonate: “True sacrifice lies in our devotion to Allah and our service to humanity.”