Sulemana Iddrisu Bamba, First Deputy Chief Imam of the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai (BAB) Municipality, has commended government for the successful and smooth organisation of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, describing it as peaceful, well-coordinated and spiritually fulfilling for Ghanaian pilgrims.
He expressed appreciation to the relevant authorities and stakeholders for ensuring that the pilgrimage was conducted without major challenges, stressing that the welfare, accommodation, transportation and medical needs of pilgrims were effectively managed from departure to return.
According to him, the success of this year’s Hajj reflects strong planning, improved logistics and a renewed commitment by both government and Islamic leadership structures to safeguard the dignity of Ghanaian pilgrims at the holy sites of Makkah and Madinah.
He made these remarks during an interview with Daily Times Newspaper, while also urging Muslims across the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality and Ghana at large to remain calm as Eid al-Adha approaches, encouraging unity, discipline and peaceful coexistence within the Muslim community.
As Eid al-Adha draws near, he painted a vivid picture of the festive atmosphere expected across Muslim communities, where early morning Takbir chants—“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar”—will echo through mosques and neighbourhoods as worshippers gather for the special Eid prayers in large open grounds and mosque courtyards.
He noted that after the Eid prayer and sermon, families will return home in a spirit of gratitude, where sacrificial animals such as rams, goats and cattle will be slaughtered in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience to Allah, symbolising sacrifice, faith and submission.
According to him, the atmosphere during Eid is often marked by joyful gatherings, with children dressed in new or best clothing, elders exchanging greetings, and households preparing meals that are shared with relatives, neighbours and the less privileged.
He further described how charitable giving becomes a central feature of the celebration, as many Muslims distribute portions of meat to the poor and vulnerable, ensuring that no one is left out of the festive joy, in line with Islamic teachings on compassion and social responsibility.
The First Deputy Chief Imam also advised Muslims to avoid any actions that could disturb public peace during the festive period, stressing that discipline, respect and patience are key values of Islam that must be reflected not only during Hajj but also throughout Eid celebrations.
Sulemana Iddrisu Bamba highlighted that the spiritual lessons of Hajj—patience, sacrifice, humility and obedience to Allah—should continue to guide Muslims even after returning home, adding that such values help strengthen family and community relationships.
He urged religious leaders, opinion leaders and youth groups to intensify messages of peace and tolerance during the Eid period, warning against unnecessary disputes, reckless behaviour or any form of violence that could disrupt the harmony of the celebrations.
He concluded with prayers for peace, prosperity and continued guidance for the Muslim Ummah, encouraging all Muslims to celebrate Eid al-Adha in a spirit of love, unity and brotherhood while praying for national stability and development.
