The Ellembelle District Chief Imam, Alhaji Mustapha Kofi Buah, has called on Muslims to intensify prayers for peace, unity and love to promote national development.

Speaking at this year’s Eid-ul-Adha celebrations at Kamgbunli in the Western Region, he urged Muslims to remain law-abiding citizens, eschew violence and deceit, and lead decent lifestyles.

Thousands of Muslims earlier converged at the Kamgbunli school park to observe the Eid prayers (Salat).

Alhaji Buah stressed the need for the youth to contribute meaningfully towards national development instead of seeking greener pastures abroad under difficult and sometimes inhumane conditions.

He cited experiences of some Ghanaian nationals abroad as a concern.

He noted that Eid-ul-Adha marked an important period in the Islamic calendar and called on the youth to uphold values that reflect positively on Islam.

The District Chief Imam advised them to avoid acts that tarnish the image of the religion, including smoking, drunkenness and stealing.

Alhaji Buah reminded the youth as future leaders, to stay away from drugs and things that would jeopardize their future and rather draw closer to Allah.

Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Member of Parliament for Ellembelle, commended the Muslim community for their prayers and spiritual support, which he said had contributed to the peace currently being enjoyed in the country.

He reiterated government’s commitment to the development of the area, citing ongoing projects such as the construction of teachers’ quarters and a six-unit classroom block.

Mr Armah-Kofi Buah also noted that the Uthman Bin Affan Islamic Senior High School had been selected as one of the leading science schools in the country and would receive additional facilities to enhance teaching and learning.

He added that the government had employed a significant number of youth in the district and would continue to create more job opportunities to reduce unemployment.