I’tikaf should still be put on hold while strict observance of all COVID-19 protocols including avoiding lengthy or crowded sessions should be observed, Sultan says in a statement
The President-General, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), and Sultan of Sokoto, Alh. Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has enjoined Nigerian Muslim Ummah to search for the crescent of Ramadan 1442 AH immediately after sunset on Monday, April 12, 2021.
Sultan, in a statement signed by the Director of Administration, NSCIA, Arc. Zubairu Haruna Usman-Ugwu, sent to Platforms Africa, felicitated with the entire Muslim Ummah on the auspicious occasion of the forthcoming Ramadan, 1442 A.H.
He urged all Muslims to be prayerful unto Allah, especially in the month of Ramadan to help Nigeria and the world in general to be able to overcome the C0VID-19 pandemic and the various extant and palpable security challenges.
The sultan also advised Muslims to be vigilant and take extra security and health-measures to protect themselves, loved ones and neighbours as they await the announcement for the commencement of Ramadan fast.
Sultan said: “If the crescent is sighted by Muslims of impeccable character on the said evening, then His Eminence would declare Tuesday, April 13, 2021 as the first day of Ramadan 1442 AH. If, however, the crescent is not sighted that day, then, Wednesday, April 14, 2021, automatically becomes the first of Ramadan, 1442 AH.
“At the same time, His Eminence also directs the Muslim Ummah to practice social distancing when looking out for the crescent.
“All Covid-19 protocols should be observed. I’tikaf should still be put on hold while strict observance of all COVID-19 protocols including avoiding lengthy or crowded sessions should be observed.
“The Council hereby enjoins the Muslims all over the country to be on the lookout for the announcement of His Eminence, the President-General of NSCIA, on the commencement of the 1442 AH Ramadan fast. The announcement will be made on Monday evening.
“In addition to the established and traditional Islamic leaders in each locality, the following members of the National Moon Sighting Committee (NMSC) can be contacted to report credible and positive sighting of the Crescent of Ramadan” he stated.
