The restrictions imposed by the government on religious activities to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the country will not make fasting by muslims in the month of Ramadan less valid.
This is the declaration of former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.
It would be recalled that muslims across the country have been advised to observer the normal Eid-el-Fitri normally conducted as a large gathering, should be observed at home this year.
The instruction is to ensure social distancing in the bid to prevent the spread of coronavirus, a development which has been supported by the Sultan of Sokoto who heads the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, NSCIA, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar.
In his message to muslims on the occasion of the Eid-el-Fitri which comes up on Sunday, Atiku said the essence of the social distancing was in the interest of all.
His message reads: “All these strictures could not have made our fasting less valid because, as Muslims, we believe that everything that happens is with the command of Almighty Allah. We are taught in the scripture and the Sunnah of Noble Prophet Muhammad (SAW) that God would test our faith individually and as an Ummah.
“The current situation of the COVID-19 pandemic is a test from Allah and, having fasted as we are enjoined as Muslims, let us continue to remember that it is part of our faith to protect all lives and to abide by regulations from those in authority, especially during a time of great uncertainty like this.
“Those protocols about avoidance of crowded places, social distancing and regular washing of hands are for our own benefits and the benefits of humankind in general.
“As Muslims, it is incumbent upon us to do our best both in action and in prayers to ensure that the world is healed of this deadly virus in the earliest possible time.”
