Low-key Eid-el-kabir celebration in Kaduna

From: Femi Oyelola Kaduna

Muslim faithful in Kaduna State celebrated a low-key Eid el Kabir celebration yesterday, no thanks to the harsh economic situation and security challenges.
Kaduna, the Crocodile city known for hustling and bustling during festive seasons such as the Eid-el-Kabir is now fading in activities due to low patronage recorded at fun spots such as the Parks, Eateries, and the like.
Findings revealed that entertainment spots like Gamji Gate, Paradise Park, Command Guest House, and the National Museum which is a beehive of activities became a ghost of themselves.
Some Muslims who spoke in an interview with our reporter lamented that because of the prevailing hardship in the country, they could not afford to buy rams to perform the religious rites.
A resident, Alhamdu Haladu while expressing his gratitude to Allah for the privilege of witnessing the Eid celebration, lamented that he is going back to Kaduna Central Market to continue business, saying staying at home without money is useless.
Similarly, a truck driver who performed the Eid prayer at Maraban Jos in Igabi LGA said he’s making an immediate move with his boys to Lagos as there’s nothing to celebrate Kaduna. in
A resident of Giwa Town, Hajiya Aisha Abubakar said the low-key preparation is a result of the recent insecurity bedeviling the state.
According to her, kidnappers and bandits have forced people to the four walls of their rooms, saying traveling is now a thing of the past because it is only the living that can celebrate.
However, Ishiaku Mohammad attributed the low-key preparation to the current economic recession, adding that the economy was not favorable for elaborate a celebration.
“It is no longer news that the country is in recession; therefore, I do not expect people to have elaborate celebrations in this year’s celebration.”
At a popular spot in Graceland at Samaru in Zaria, known for its busy activities during festive seasons it tells a different story as very few guests are spotted chilling in the Hotel.
A staff, who pleaded anonymity said they still had hope that more guests would grace the Hotel, sooner or later.
The Popular Murtala Square also witnessed a low number of patronage which was attributed to security measures put in place to check phone snatchers and hooligans who intend to cause harm.