Businessman and philanthropist Alhaji Seidu Agongo has appealed to Ghanaians to show more compassion and generosity to one another during the Eid-ul-Adha festival and beyond.
Alhaji Agongo, who is sponsoring thousands of people into school, through skills training and with shelter, food, and funds, said it was only in giving that human beings find true fulfillment in the worship of Allah, and the manifestation of their spiritual beliefs.
Speaking to the media to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Adha celebration, the founder of the collapsed Heritage Bank Limited said while giving should be an everyday thing, occasions like Sallah were meant to bring humanity closer to God as well as remind them of the need to share with each, however little.
Alhaji, therefore, expressed the hope that Muslims and Christians alike would use the occasion to preach and spread love, compassion, and any material gains they have been blessed with.
Economic crisis
The founder of the Class Media Group (CMG) said giving was particularly crucial this year, given the economic challenges that the country finds itself in.
With prices of basic items and utilities rising; eroding the already meager incomes of fellow citizens, Alhaji said underprivileged families will find it tough to celebrate Eid.
He said any support would mean more to such families as it could bring smiles to the faces of children and even parents.
The business mogul’s appeal comes when religious leaders are urging their followers to be conscious of the tough times in marking the occasion.
Last week, an Imam at the Ashaiman Newtown Junction Mosque, Malam Abdul Rakib Abubakar, advised Muslims to celebrate the Eid within budget, given the economic challenges.
Last year, Muslims in the Upper East Region reportedly resorted to chicken in place of the age-old sheep and cattle as protein to celebrate the occasion as a result of the economic crunch.
Alhaji Agongo said these were evidence that not many families would be able to afford the special meal associated with such occasions, hence the need for the few privileged to support the needy.
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