A Nigerian pastor from the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) has sparked controversy by claiming that the Islamic festival Eid al-Adha, known as Ileya in the Yoruba language, actually belongs to Christianity. In a viral video on TikTok, the cleric urged Christians not to shy away from eating the festival meat shared by their Muslim neighbors.
Pastor's Argument on Abraham's Sons
The pastor argued that Isaac, the son of Prophet Abraham, is more closely related to Christians than Muslims. He stated that Isaac was the son intended for sacrifice before God replaced him with a ram, and that this event forms the basis of Christian faith. He further explained that the practice of animal sacrifice was abolished in Christendom after Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross, which washed away the sins of believers.
Eid al-Adha 2026 in Nigeria
Muslims across Nigeria are preparing to celebrate Eid al-Adha on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. The festival commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael, as per Islamic tradition. The celebration involves rituals in Mecca and Medina, while those unable to travel slaughter animals locally. In Nigeria, the occasion is marked by colorful palace festivals and cultural displays, such as the Ojude Oba festival among the Yoruba people.
Ojude Oba Festival
The Ojude Oba Festival is an ancient celebration held in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, on the third day after Eid al-Adha. It honors the Awujale of Ijebuland and features parades by cultural age groups called regberegbe. The event attracts about a million people from around the world, particularly those of Yoruba and Ijebu descent.
Significance of Dhul Hijjah
Eid al-Adha occurs during Dhul Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's act of devotion. In Nigeria, the federal government has declared public holidays for the occasion, and banks nationwide are expected to close.
The pastor's viral remarks have ignited discussions on social media, with many Nigerians debating the religious ownership of the festival. The video continues to trend, drawing attention to the intersection of Christian and Islamic traditions in the country.
