Sultan declares Friday Eid, police, NSCDC mobilise nationwide
The Sultanate Council in Nigeria has declared Friday as Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, following the non-sighting of the moon.
The Sultanate Council of Sokoto, Nigeria, has officially declared Friday as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH, indicating the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr nationwide. This announcement was made by Sambo Wali Junaidu, the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, after the crescent moon was not sighted on the 29th day of Ramadan, necessitating the completion of the month with 30 days before observing the holiday.
Eid-el-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting observed by Muslims, and its timing is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, a tradition that dates back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad. The determination of Eid's date is crucial for Muslim communities as it symbolizes a significant religious celebration. The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, under the guidance of the Sultan of Sokoto, regularly conducts moon sighting efforts across the country to ensure collective observance among the Muslim population.
With the announcement of Eid-el-Fitr, various agencies, including the police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), are mobilizing across the nation to ensure safety and security during the celebrations. This coordinated effort emphasizes the importance of maintaining order and supporting the joyous occasion, highlighting the communal aspect of Islamic celebrations and the government's role in facilitating these important events.