As Muslims across the nation celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has sanctioned an extension of the public holiday until Friday, April 12th.
While the federal government had initially declared Tuesday, April 9th, Wednesday, April 10th, and Thursday, April 11th as public holidays for Sallah festivities, Governor Inuwa’s additional day off aims to provide residents with a more comfortable celebration.
The announcement of the governor’s approval came through the office of the head of the civil service of the state on Wednesday evening.
The extension of the holiday aligns with the state’s tradition of observing the Sallah festival for three consecutive days, marked by horse riding events led by the Emir of Gombe, Abubakar Shehu Abubakar.
During the festivities, a Durbar (horse riding) ceremony known as “Hawan Sallah” traditionally takes place immediately after Eid prayers, followed by “Hawan Gidan Gwamnati” on the second day, and “Hawan Tudun Wada” on the third day.
“I am directed to inform you that the Governor of Gombe State Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya (Dan Majen Gombe) has approved the extension of the public holiday to Thursday, April 11 and Friday, April 12, 2024, to enable civil servants in the state to continue with the celebration of this year’s Eid-el-Fitir”, a press release from the office of the head of civil service says.
Meanwhile, the governor asked workers on essential services to remain active throughout the public holiday adding that all other workers should resume their normal duties on Monday, 15th April, 2024.
