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Tag: Ramadan

  • Eid-El-Fotri: Reps Minority Caucus felicitates with Muslims, calls for prayers for peace, unity and progress in Nigeria

    Eid-El-Fotri: Reps Minority Caucus felicitates with Muslims, calls for prayers for peace, unity and progress in Nigeria

    The House of Representatives Minority Caucus felicitates with Muslims across the country calling for prayers for peace, unity and progress in Nigeria.

    This was contained in a sallah message jointly signed by the caucus leaders,
    Rep. O.K Chinda
    Minority Leader Rt. Hon. (Dr) Ali Isa J.C Minority Whip Rt. Hon. Aliyu Madaki Deputy Minority Leader
    Rt. Hon. George Ozodinobi
    Deputy Minority Whip.

    In the message, the caucus congratulates the entire Muslim Ummah on the occasion of this year’s Eid-El-Fitri celebrations, marking the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

    “Indeed, it is a very unique day for every Muslim faithful, as it is of significance following the successful completion of the one-month long fasting; which is one of the cardinal tenets of Islam.

    “As our Muslim brethren across the country join others around the world to mark this auspicious day; and confident that Allah has accepted all prayers and supplications during this period, the Caucus, further admonish all to sustain the teachings, practice, and lessons of the Holy Month which includes life-changing virtues of charity, empathy, generosity, and compassion to one another.

    “The Caucus also wishes to impress all Muslims (and Christians; who are also observing Lent) to continually pray for peace, unity, progress, and development of our dear country.

    “We believe that through prayers, our leaders; at all levels will have the right wisdom, knowledge, and understanding towards navigating the country through multi-sectoral challenges and difficulties that are not only limiting the realization of Nigeria’s potentials but throwing our people into immeasurable hardship and corrosive poverty.

    “In the same vein, the Caucus urges the Federal Government; through relevant agencies to ensure the protection of lives and properties across the country, following recent security challenges witnessed in some locations and communities in the North West, North Central, South East, and South South geo-political zones.

  • Just in: Ramadan fasting ends as Sultan of Sokoto confirms sighting of moon for Eid-el-Fitr

    Just in: Ramadan fasting ends as Sultan of Sokoto confirms sighting of moon for Eid-el-Fitr

    The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Abubakar Sa’ad, has announced that the crescent moon marking the end of Ramadan fasting has been sighted.

    The Sultan made this known in a broadcast on Saturday.

    The Sultan said they received reports of sighting from Borno, Zazzau, Dutse, Maru, among other places within the country.

    The Sultan, who is president of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSIA), said, “Today marks the end of the Ramadan fasting and Sunday, March 30, is the Eid-el-Fitri celebration”.

    Details shortly….

  • Just in: Saudi Arabia confirms real date for sallah celebrations

    Just in: Saudi Arabia confirms real date for sallah celebrations

    Saudi Arabia has confirmed that Eid-el-Fitr will take place on Sunday.

    This follows the sighting of the crescent moon marking the beginning of the Islamic month of Shawwal.

    The announcement was made on Saturday through an official platform widely followed by Muslims worldwide.

    Eid-el-Fitr, which signals the conclusion of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, is a time for prayers, feasting, and giving to those in need.

    It is observed by millions of Muslims around the globe.

    While Saudi Arabia has set Sunday as the day for the festival, Muslims in Nigeria are traditionally expected to await the announcement from the Sultan of Sokoto, His Majesty Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, who is responsible for confirming the official end of Ramadan in the country.

    Eid-el-Fitr is known for bringing families and communities together in celebration, as worshippers visit mosques, share meals, and extend kindness to the less fortunate during this joyful occasion.

  • Ramadan: Sharia supreme council backs school closure

    Ramadan: Sharia supreme council backs school closure

    The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) says the decision by some northern governors to close primary and secondary schools during Ramadan is appropriate.

    A statement by its Secretary-General, Nafiu Baba-Ahmad, in Kaduna on Thursday, said the closure prioritises students’ well-being amid extreme heat conditions during the fasting period.

    Baba-Ahmad criticised organisations, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), for opposing the move, stating that state governments have full authority over school schedules.

    “Threats of legal or industrial action over the closures are unnecessary. CAN opposed a structured 25-day adjustment but remained silent during prolonged ASUU strikes,” Baba-Ahmad said.

    According to him, the closure is temporary and will not disrupt academic activities, as lost time can be recovered by adjusting the long vacation.

    “The decision was thoroughly reviewed by the Ministries of Education and widely accepted by parents,” Baba-Ahmad added.

    Citing the Education Law of Jan. 1, 1964, Baba-Ahmad reaffirmed that governors have the exclusive right to set school holidays, except in Kogi.

    He said that state governments were not obliged to seek approval from external groups when making educational policy decisions.

    Baba-Ahmad commended the affected states for prioritising students’ welfare and urged other northern states to adopt similar policies.

    He appealed to organisations to respect state governments’ authority and refrain from interfering in educational matters affecting students.

  • FRSC advises motorists on how to avoid accidents during Ramadan fast

    FRSC advises motorists on how to avoid accidents during Ramadan fast

    The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ogun has advised motorists performing the Ramadan fast to ensure adequate rest before driving to minimise fatigue induced crashes.

    Mr Wasiu Ogunmefun, the Ota Unit Commander of FRSC, gave the advice in an interview on Monday in Ota.

    “Motorists should rest very well, especially during this Ramadan period, to prevent them from falling asleep while behind the wheels, thereby leading to accidents,” he told NAN.

    The unit commander said that a minimum of eight hours sleep was required to be alert on the wheels and enjoined motorists  to obey all traffic rules and regulations in order to have safer highways.

    Ogunmefun also admonished motorists to desist from driving against traffic to avoid unnecessary loss of lives during the Ramadan.

    He said that the FRSC was strongly averse to driving against traffic, adding that anyone caught would be arrested and prosecuted according to the law.

    Muslim faithful across the world commenced the 30-day fasting in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar on March 1.

  • CAN reacts over closure of schools during Ramadan

    CAN reacts over closure of schools during Ramadan

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has described the decision by some northern state governments to close all schools throughout the Ramadan fasting period as counterproductive.

    This is contained in a statement signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, on Sunday in Abuja

    Some states in the north, like Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi, have directed that all schools should be closed during Ramadan.

    According to CAN, such decisions raise serious issues of equity, educational continuity, and the welfare of all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.

    CAN said the closures would disrupt education in a region that was already grappling with high rates of out-of-school children averaging 44 per cent, and undermine equity in governance.

    “The closure of schools across these northern states, ranging from nursery to tertiary levels, for an extended period will disrupt academic schedules, and threaten the educational advancement of millions of students.

    “These states are already facing alarming rates of out-of-school children, averaging 44 per cent according to recent data, far exceeding the national average.

    “Such prolonged breaks risk deepening this crisis, undermining efforts to ensure access to quality education for all,” CAN said.

    CAN also said that, while it respected religious practices, it was dismayed by the lack of broad consultation with stakeholders, prior to taking the decisions.

    The association further gave global examples, such as what it said obtained in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where schools remained open with adjusted schedules during Ramadan.

    It called for dialogue involving religious leaders, educators, and parents to reassess the policy.

    CAN warned that if inclusive solutions were not reached, it may pursue legal action to protect the students’ constitutional rights to education and freedom of conscience.

    It, therefore, called for calm and peaceful engagement on the development, adding that fairness and national cohesion were of critical importance.

  • Residents in shock as gunmen kill Ondo businessman after Ramadan prayer

    Residents in shock as gunmen kill Ondo businessman after Ramadan prayer

    The Police Command in Ondo State has stated that investigations are ongoing into the assassination of a businessman, Ismaila Awoyinka, in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.

    ASP Funmilayo Odunlami, the command’s Public Relations Officer, confirmed the assassination to NAN on Sunday in Okitipupa.

    “Investigation is ongoing to unravel the assassination of the businessman,” Odunlami said.

    Residents of Ore were left in shock after the assassination of Awoyinka, a building materials dealer, by unknown gunmen.

    The attack occurred on Saturday near his home, opposite Caring Heart Mega School in the Idi Mango area of Ore.

    An eyewitness revealed that the businessman was ambushed after performing the Taraweeh prayer, usually held after each day of Ramadan fasting.

    “He had just left the mosque at 8:35 p.m. when some men in white clothes arrived on a motorcycle. As he approached his residence, they shot him at close range,” the eyewitness said.

    News of his death spread quickly, drawing a crowd of sympathisers to his home, many of whom were in shock.

    Taiwo Adegoroye, the Chairman of Odigbo LGA, expressed his deep concern over the security situation, calling the assassination a tragic loss.

  • Man beats wife to death over Ramadan food in Bauchi

    Man beats wife to death over Ramadan food in Bauchi

    A 50-year-old businessman, Alh Nuru Isah has been arrested by the Bauchi State Police Command for allegedly beating his second wife to death over food in Fadamam Mada area of the state.

    Spokesperson of the command, CSP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, in a statement on Sunday, March 2, 2025, said the incident occurred during a domestic dispute over the handling of food ingredients and fruits designated for breaking the Ramadan fast.

    The PPRO, Isah struck his 24-year-old wife with a cane, causing her to collapse and lose consciousness and was immediately rushed to ATBU Teaching Hospital, where medical personnel confirmed her death.

    The statement reads: “On March 1, 2025, at about 11:30 00PM, the Bauchi State Police Command was alerted to an alleged culpable homicide incident near Government Girls College, Fadamam Mada Area, Bauchi.

    “This unfortunate event arose from a misunderstanding between one Alh Nuru Isah, aged 50, a businessman at Central Market Bauchi and his second wife, Wasila Abdullahi, aged 24, concerning handling of food ingredients and fruits designated for breaking the Ramadan fast, which escalated into a violent confrontation.

    “Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect, Alh Nuru Isah, is accused of using a cane to strike his wife, which resulted in her collapsing and becoming unconscious within their matrimonial residence. The victim was subsequently transported to ATBU Teaching Hospital, where medical personnel confirmed her d3ath.

    “The Bauchi State Police Command has initiated a thorough investigation into this incident and has apprehended the suspect, Alh Nuru Isah. The cane purportedly utilised in the assault has been recovered as exhibits, and the deceased has been placed in the mortuary pending autopsy procedures.

    “Commissioner of Police CP AUWAL MUSA MUHAMMAD Psc Anpir has assured the public that the commitment to ensuring justice remains a priority for the command.

    “Important Reminders: Domestic violence constitutes a serious offence with potentially devastating repercussions. Every individual is entitled to reside in a safe and secure environment. Collectively, we can foster a community that prioritises respect, empathy, and understanding.

    “The Bauchi State Police Command reiterates its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of all citizens while ensuring that offenders of criminal activities are held accountable.”

  • Ramadan: Atiku tasks Nigerians on generosity

    Ramadan: Atiku tasks Nigerians on generosity

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged Nigerians to extend their hands of charity and affection far beyond immediate families to others.

    Abubakar made the call in a statement in Abuja to mark the commencement of Ramadan.

    “It is important that in Ramadan, we extend our hands of charity and affection far beyond our immediate families.

    “The lifestyle of noble Prophet Muhammed (SAW) should be our guide, as he taught us the immense benefits of being generous, especially during the month of Ramadan,’’ he said.

    The Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections urged Muslims to remember Nigeria in their prayers.

    He also urged governments at all levels to provide the necessary succour that would ease the pains of Nigerians during the Ramadan fasting and beyond.

  • Tinubu sends message to Muslim faithful as Ramadan begins tomorrow

    Tinubu sends message to Muslim faithful as Ramadan begins tomorrow

    President Bola Tinubu wishes the Muslim faithful in Nigeria and worldwide good health, spiritual fulfilment, and divine blessings as they begin the sacred month of Ramadan.

    In a statement he personally signed,  the President said: “We are profoundly grateful to Almighty Allah for granting us the grace to witness the commencement of this holy month, a cornerstone of the Islamic faith.”

    According to Tinubu, Ramadan is a time for deep reflection, renewed devotion to Allah, and acts of compassion and generosity toward humanity.

    He described it as a season of spiritual rejuvenation, self-discipline, and empathy for the less fortunate.

    “I urge all Muslims observing the fast to embrace the profound lessons of piety, humility, and selflessness that this holy month embodies.

    “Let us use this period to strengthen our bonds with Allah and one another, fostering unity and peace in our communities.

    “The 2025  Ramadan holds special significance as it coincides with a period of renewed hope and progress for our nation,” Tinubu stated.

    He said his administration’s bold and transformative policies were beginning to yield positive results, as evidenced by the gradual stabilisation of the economy.

    “The Gross Domestic Product for the last quarter of 2024 showed a marked improvement over the same period in 2023.

    “The once-soaring prices of essential food items are now downward, providing much-needed relief to our fasting population and all Nigerians.

    “The exchange rate is stabilising, and fuel prices are declining, signalling a brighter future,” the President stated.

    He stated that as the wet season approached, his government remained steadfast in boosting agricultural productivity.

    “We are determined to enhance food production and ensure self-sufficiency and food security for all Nigerians through targeted input support, mechanisation, and innovative farming initiatives. Our resolve to build a resilient and prosperous nation remains unwavering.

    “In this sacred month, I call on all Nigerians to join hands in prayer and action for our beloved country’s continued growth and development.

    “Let us fervently seek Allah’s guidance and protection for our nation, and let our words and deeds reflect our shared commitment to peace, unity, and progress.”

    He extended his wishes to all Muslims observing Ramadan for a month filled with joy, peace, and spiritual renewal.

    “May the blessings of this holy month illuminate our hearts and homes, and may we emerge from it as better individuals and a stronger nation,” he said.

    Fasting: Sultan Declares Saturday as 1st Ramadan 1446 AH

    Dr Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), has declared Saturday, March 1, 2025, as the first day of Ramadan 1446 AH in Nigeria.

    The Sultan made the announcement in a nationwide radio and television broadcast on Friday, confirming the sighting of the new crescent of Ramadan in various parts of the country.

    He stated that reports of the moon sighting were received from Muslim leaders and organisations across Nigeria.

    “After due verification and authentication by the National Moon Sighting Committee, as well as confirmations from state committees, the new moon of Ramadan was officially recognised, marking the end of Sha’aban 1446 AH.

    “In accordance with Islamic law, Muslims are to commence fasting on Saturday, March 1,” the Sultan declared.

    He urged Muslim faithful to dedicate themselves to the worship of Allah (SWT) throughout the holy month and to use this period to pray for prevailing peace across the country and also pray for the leaders.

    Additionally, the Sultan encouraged wealthy individuals to assist the less privileged, emphasising the importance of religious tolerance and unity among Nigerians.

    He prayed to the Almighty to strengthen the leaders in their commitment to leading the country.

    Fasting, one of the five pillars of Islam, refers to abstinent from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual intercourse from dawn to sunset with the intention of worshiping Almighty Allah.

    Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a sacred period during which adult Muslims observe compulsory fasting from dawn to sunset for a complete month.