The Eid prayer in Ilorin, Kwara State capital, was another historic day in the Emirate, as the prayer witnessed large turnout of Muslim faithfuls.
Several dignitaries were also in attendance for the prayer, notable among whom was former Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki, whose presence attracted large attention.
As the Waziri Ngeri of Ilorin Emirate who is loved by his people, it was impossible to stop his admirers from chanting his name as the chorus of Saraki, Saraki, Sai Bukky and Sai Leader, rented the air.
Having observed that the praying ground was getting overwhelmed by his admirers who were excited to see him, Saraki soon left the Eid ground after he was seen taking permission from the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari.
There were reliable reports that Saraki, the highest traditional title holder in the Emirate who have always had the highest pool of followers, left Eid with the permission of the Emir to ensure peace and decongest the Eid ground.
His quiet exit led to mass exodus as admirers again flooded his convoy hailing him.
The overwhelming love and show of honour didn’t stop as the cheerful admirers accompanied him to his Ilorin GRA home peacefully.
There was however, drama as the Kwara State Governor, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq abruptly left the Ilorin Eid Praying Ground, afterwards.
The Governor was seen taken a one-way road as the chants of Sai Saraki rented the air.
Sources at the Eid ground said the Governor felt angry and embarrassed, hence, his decision to leave abruptly.
Saraki, who appreciated the people’s love and honour at his residence, also lauded the people of Ilorin for their maturity, peaceful conduct and respect for the traditional institution at the prayer ground.
In all, this year’s Eid was largely peaceful and it was acknowledged by the Eid moderator during the prayer.