Martha Kemigisha

<p>Scammers may target believers to prey on their kindness and faith during holidays and faith-based celebrations. Look out for yourself and others when it comes to the following fraud attempts.</p>

<p>You may fall victim to beggars who try to take advantage of believers during Ramadan. In Dubai, authorities have an anti-begging campaign during Ramadan in which they patrol public places to round up beggars. Practice caution when interacting with beggars and if possible donate to communities or charities.</p>

<p>Watch out for charity appeals to donate to current issues or causes. The United Kingdom Charity Commission had to issue a warning alerting people about fake fundraisers, especially for victims of the earthquake in Turkey.</p>

<p>Make sure to do simple checks to make sure your donation is going to the intended destination.</p>

<p>You may get online shopping vouchers that claim to give you discounts for Ramadan. Scammers usually send them as links on WhatsApp which links lead you to a page where you are required to fill in personal data.</p>

<p>If you get a link from an unknown number, ignore it.</p>

<p>Money lenders are on the rise especially online. They claim to have quick loans with high value and little to no collateral. They may offer Ramadan bonuses which can make it easy to fall for them. However, scammers usually give links that take personal data which can lead to loss of money and important information.</p>

<p>Another way scammers use to trap people during Ramadan is by telling you that you won a prize in the season bonus by phone or another channel. They can claim to be affiliated with banks, e-commerce businesses, or other financial institutions. They may ask for sensitive information that may lead to loss of money.</p>

<p>Also, watch out for data update scammers. They may send you a link that resembles that of your service provider to try and get you to re-enter your data which can then be used to access your accounts.</p>

<p>Several scams happen during Ramadan. The list may be bigger than the one above but they can all be avoided by being vigilant and responsible with money and personal data.</p>

Fraudsters usually try to benefit from the Ramadan season. Here are some examples of fraud attempts you may run into or fail to recognise.

5 common scams you should look out for in Ramadan

Jidechi Chidiezie

<p>Blackburn Rovers on Monday became the first football club in the United Kingdom to host Eid prayers as over 2,000 people celebrated on the pitch.</p>

<p>The Ewood Park: home to former Nigerian striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni between 2011 and 2012, saw hundreds of people congregate to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>READ ALSO: </strong><a href="https://www.pulse.ng/sports/football/pulse-list-top-10-greatest-nigerian-players-in-premier-league-history/kssy46w"><strong>Pulse's top 10 greatest Nigerian players in Premier League history</strong></a></p>

<p>Blackburn: who Aiyegbeni scored 17 goals for in 30 Premier League appearances, <a href="https://twitter.com/Rovers/status/1521438165571153920?s=20&amp;t=XX9xvnejTVx0Y18AvFgpgA"><strong>tweeted aerial footage</strong></a> that showed a sermon being delivered with half of the pitch covered in prayer mats.</p>

<h3>What is the Muslim 'Eid' prayer about?</h3>

<p>Eid al-Fitr, which marks the conclusion of the Ramadan fasting month, and Eid al-Adha, another Islamic celebration that occurs later in the year, both include the Eid prayer.</p>

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🌙 Eid Mubarak from everyone at Blackburn Rovers.<br><br>This morning <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rovers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rovers</a> became the first football club in the country to host Eid prayers on the pitch. 💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EidMubarak?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EidMubarak</a> 🔵⚪️ <a href="https://t.co/Pw0LHkqjg5">pic.twitter.com/Pw0LHkqjg5</a></p>&mdash; Blackburn Rovers (@Rovers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rovers/status/1521071070945726464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Eid al-Fitr, the prayer comes after a mandatory act of charity offered to the poor by every financially able Muslim and is followed by a meal of sweet dishes.</p>

<p><strong>READ ALSO: </strong><a href="https://www.pulse.ng/sports/sports-gist/odion-ighalo-celebrates-eid-al-fitr-holiday-with-kids-in-saudi-arabia/0zk6rbv"><strong>Super Eagles star Odion Ighalo celebrates Eid al-Fitr holiday with kids in Saudi Arabia [Photos]</strong></a></p>

<p>It is usually offered as part of a gathering in a big open location, such as a field or mosque. However, in recent years especially, due to the Covid-19 outbreak, festivities have been cancelled or toned back.</p>

<h3>Marking the end of Ramadan with Blackburn Rovers</h3>

<p>On Monday, a message from the club read: “Eid Mubarak from everyone at Blackburn Rovers. This morning #Rovers became the first football club in the country to host Eid prayers on the pitch.”</p>

<p>Yasir Sufi, integration manager at the club,<strong> </strong><a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-lancashire-61300097"><strong>said according to BBC</strong></a>: "We live and breathe, one town, one club, one community. An event like this shows this better than anything else."</p>

<p><strong>READ ALSO: </strong><a href="https://www.pulse.ng/sports/opinion/how-ramadan-has-affected-top-muslim-footballers-so-far/qe3tgvd"><strong>How Ramadan has affected top Muslim footballers so far</strong></a></p>

<p>"It shows that we are all one, no matter who you are or what your identity is, the football club is somewhere where you belong."</p>

<p>Rovers CEO Steve Waggott <a href="https://www.rovers.co.uk/news/2022/may/02/an-historic-day-at-eid-wood-park-/"><strong>said on the club's website</strong></a>: “I think this is a hugely significant moment for football. Not just for Blackburn Rovers, but for football in general.</p>

Muslims troop in for prayers at Blackburn

<p>“We’ve all suffered over the past two years through Covid and social restrictions, so to see all the families – some or most who would never think about coming to Ewood Park – walking in here today was just wonderful to see and now that they’ve seen it and they’ve had a lovely time, hopefully, they want to come back."</p>

<h3>Reception to Blackburn's gesture</h3>

<p>"Eid for Muslims is something very special, gathering all the relatives together. This time, for us especially, we miss our relatives so much," Sudan-born Ahmed Khalifa, a Manchester City fan, who moved to Blackburn from the UAE about four months ago, said <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/may/02/blackburn-rovers-first-uk-football-club-eid-prayers-pitch"><strong>according to The Guardian</strong></a>.</p>

Half the pitch at Ewood Park covered with prayer mats

<p>"So it was a very big deal for us to have this group of people. So happy to see all these people there."</p>

<p>Also, dozens of social media users congratulated Blackburn for hosting the event, while others thought such an act should be extended beyond the Muslim community.</p>

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/CelticFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CelticFC</a> As an Irish Catholic I&#39;d be delighted to see Celtic Park opened up for our Muslim brothers and sisters. <br><br>Well done Blackburn. But get it sorted Celtic.</p>&mdash; Seán ó Conghaile (@SeanConnolly67) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanConnolly67/status/1521463017052979200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A privilege to have been part of the Eid prayer that took place today at <a href="https://twitter.com/Rovers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Rovers</a>       A fantastic effort by <a href="https://twitter.com/yasirsufi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yasirsufi</a> and the team in celebrating the diversity that exists within and around Blackburn. A huge thank you to you all for making this happen. <a href="https://t.co/x4hFICvx9n">pic.twitter.com/x4hFICvx9n</a></p>&mdash; Faz Sidat IMO (@faz_sidat) <a href="https://twitter.com/faz_sidat/status/1521083152231550976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">That&#39;s why Blackburn Rovers is the greatest football club in the world.<br>Eid Mubarak <a href="https://twitter.com/Rovers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Rovers</a> <a href="https://t.co/fqbQW3G5xX">https://t.co/fqbQW3G5xX</a></p>&mdash; Dokshiman (@yakubudm98) <a href="https://twitter.com/yakubudm98/status/1521404862638002177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Excellent move of tolerance and social responsibility. Well done Blackburn Rovers for showing the way.</p>&mdash; Badran (@Badran_Hinai) <a href="https://twitter.com/Badran_Hinai/status/1521194165073231874?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Blackburn Rovers was home to former Nigerian striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni, a Muslim, between 2011 and 2012.

Muslims, others react as Yakubu's former club Blackburn Rovers, host Eid prayers

Joba Ogunwale

<p>Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, is in full swing this year. The month started on Friday, April 2, in the Gregorian calendar, and according to Islamic traditions, it marked the beginning of 29-30 days of fasting for Muslims.&nbsp;</p>

Vue de la grande mosquée Salam du Plateau, Abidjan

<p>The annual practice is one of the Five pillars/tenets of Islam, and it is to be observed by every Muslim of age unless the person has a health challenge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Footballers are not left out, although it could be stressful for them as they have to do without water and food for the most part of the day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also, they have to do away with all social vices and sexual relations during this period.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nonetheless, these players still partake in the fast. With the fact established, we take a look at some of the famous footballers observing the ongoing Ramadan fasting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Partey was not born a Muslim, judging by his first name-Thomas. The Arsenal midfielder just<a href="https://www.pulse.ng/sports/football/thomas-partey-ghana-midfielder-converts-to-islam/phc3b4j"> converted to Islam</a> after taking Arabic classes in London.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The midfielder was seen with an Islamic cleric following his conversion to Islam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Partey is already in the spirit of fasting after wishing his followers on his Instagram story 'happy Ramadan.'</p>

<p>Like Partey, Pogba also converted to Islam. The Manchester United midfielder revealed he found peace after converting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's everything. That's what makes me thankful for everything," Pogba told <a href="https://play.acast.com/s/lifetimes/lifetimeswithpaulpogba?autoplay">The Times' new Life Times podcast</a></p>

<p>"It made me change, realise things in life. I guess, maybe, it makes me more peaceful inside.</p>

<p>Pogba also added that he converted to Islam after speaking to his friends who are Muslims and also doing his research.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It came because I have a lot of friends who are Muslim. We always talk.</p>

<p>"I was questioning myself in a lot of things, then I started doing my own research. I prayed once with my friends, and I felt something different. I felt really good.</p>

<p>Since converting, Pogba has been public about his faith. He has made many trips to the holy city of Mecca.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 29-year-old is currently observing Ramadan fasting, wishing his fellow Muslim brothers and sisters' Ramadan Mubarak.'&nbsp;</p>

<p>Unlike Pogba and Partey, Benzema grew up as a Muslim. Born in France to Algerian parents, Benzema is one of the most fashionable footballers in the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His love for flashy cars is well known, and he has graced the cover of many magazines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, like every other Muslim, Benzema also takes the holy month of Ramadan seriously.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking in a recent interview with Esquire magazine, Benzema said:&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It has no impact. Ramadan is part of my life, and my religion makes Ramadan an obligation. For me, it's very important, and I feel good when I fast."</p>

<p>Salah is the most popular player in the Arab world, and he also takes his religion seriously.&nbsp; The 29-year-old Egyptian celebrates his goals by bowing down to pray in the Islamic way.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although he did miss a day of fasting in 2018 ahead of the Champions League final against Real Madrid, Salah is a staunch Muslim, and it is unlikely he will miss Ramadan this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Salah's teammate at Liverpool, Mane, is also another dedicated Muslim. Like Salah, Mane also celebrates his goal by praying in the Islamic way.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Like any other Muslim worldwide, Mane is already in the Ramadan spirit after wishing his brothers and sisters a happy Ramadan on his Instagram page.</p>

<p>He may not be everyone's cup of tea, but you cannot question Ozil's love for Islam.&nbsp; If he is not helping disadvantaged Muslim children, he is wishing his followers Jumma Mubarak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ozil's relationship with his faith is strong, and he will not miss Ramadan for anything.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His pre-match ritual involves praying before the whistle. Ozil has also wished his followers on social media a happy Ramadan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Born in Germany to Sierra Leone immigrants, Rudiger is another player that takes his religion seriously.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Like Ozil, his pre-match ritual involves praying with his palms opened.&nbsp; Rudiger is a key player for Chelsea this season, but that has not stopped him from observing the holy month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kante is Rudiger's teammate at Chelsea, and he is also partaking in the Ramadan fast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Born in Paris to Malian parents, Kante is a practising Muslim. He has a shy personality, but he is one of Chelsea's most important players.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The World Cup winner is a workaholic on the football pitch, covering every inch of the grass.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But despite the energy he spends on the pitch, Kante takes part in the annual Ramadan fast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fofana received praises from Leicester City's manager Brendan Rodgers following their 1-1 draw at Manchester United on Saturday evening.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Frenchman just returned from a broken leg, but more importantly, he played against the Red Devils while fasting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was an act that impressed Rodgers, who praised the 21-year-old's strength.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He has just started Ramadan," Rodgers said. "He hasn't eaten or drunk a thing.</p>

<p>"To play like that shows what a player he is."</p>

<p>The Super Eagles captain will be disappointed over Nigeria's failure to qualify for the World Cup, but that will not stop him from fulfilling his religious obligations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Along with Musa, players like Sadiq Musa, Zaidu Sanusi and Abdullahi Shehu are other Nigerian players observing the Ramadan fast.&nbsp;</p>

Thomas Partey: Ghana midfielder converts to Islam

The ninth month in the Islamic calendar is a special one for Muslims as it is a month they get to observe a fast for 29-30 days, depending on the sighting of the moon.&nbsp;

Thomas Partey, Paul Pogba and other famous players observing Ramadan fasting

Ima Elijah

<p>Nigerians on Social media have reacted following the suspension of the Chief Imam of Apo Legislative Quarters Mosque, Sheikh <strong>Nuru Khalid</strong>, over a sermon considered to be “anti-government”.</p>

<p>The Muslim cleric in the sermon had criticized the government over killings in Nigeria, advising Nigerians not to vote for leaders who cannot guarantee the safety of lives and properties during the 2023 general election.</p>

<p>The Imam, in the sermon, had hinted at some measures that the electorate should devise should the authorities fail to protect their lives.</p>

<p>He said, “<em>Nigerian masses should resort to only one term which is – protect our lives, we will come out to vote; let us be killed, we will not come out to vote, since it’s only elections that you people know”.</em></p>

<p>However, in the message Senator<strong> Saidu Muhammed Dansadau</strong> , the chairman of the mosque committee, sent to BBC Hausa Service, the committee suspended the embattled imam over his sermon that it deemed ‘inciting public outrage’.</p>

<p>The statement read,&nbsp;<em>“I am informing you that you have been suspended from leading prayers in the Apo Legislative Quarters Mosque from today being April 2nd, 2022 until further notice.</em></p>

<p><em>“The decision was taken out of the inciting Friday sermon you delivered on April 1st, 2022; where you advised people not to vote come 2023 general elections unless politicians respond to some critical questions.</em></p>

<p><em>"You should have advised them to vote out those that transgress the Almighty and breach people’s social contract as well as the state”.</em></p>

<p>Many Nigerians have commended the Imam for speaking truth to power, however, the steering committee of Apo Legislative Quarters Mosque accused Khalid of “inciting” the electorate against politicians. </p>

<p>Some Nigerians on social media have condemned the action of the mosque committee, describing the suspension as an “oppression”.</p>

<p>While calling for the reinstatement of the Imam, they urged Khalid not to be intimidated.</p>

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Isn&#39;t it interesting how everyone irrespective of religious differences is standing up to defend Sheikh Nuru Khalid<br><br>It shows that truth has no religion<br><br>Do the right thing and we all will be your brother. We proved it during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EndSARS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EndSARS</a><br><br>ASUU Nnamdi Kanu Berger NIN-Sim linkage <a href="https://t.co/0Hzp0LSzZs">pic.twitter.com/0Hzp0LSzZs</a></p>&mdash; Peter Benjamin Peter (@PBPwroteIT) <a href="https://twitter.com/PBPwroteIT/status/1510982138023358467?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Sheikh Nuru Khalid dusted the mirror the Clergies used to show GEJ and he showed it to the President and his colleagues couldn’t stand it.Khalid has demonstrated fidelity to his faith,to his conscience and to his conviction.</p>&mdash; Senator Shehu Sani (@ShehuSani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShehuSani/status/1510518608887173123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The suspension/removal of Sheikh Nuru Khalid merely paints a vivid picture of our religious establishment. He is one of the very few that speaks truth to power, and preaches to people ever so kindly. His sin is that he’s an upright human being whose soul overflows with empathy.</p>&mdash; . (@FakhuusHashim) <a href="https://twitter.com/FakhuusHashim/status/1510841300723056643?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I will forever be proud of Sheikh Nuru Khalid. It takes extraordinary courage to speak the truth knowing fully well that it could cost you a lot. The compromise we refuse to accept today, would set the blueprint for others to follow tomorrow. This is how we build a just world.</p>&mdash; FS Yusuf (@FS_Yusuf_) <a href="https://twitter.com/FS_Yusuf_/status/1510519415032500228?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Sheikh Nuru Khalid is a proof that Islam isn&#39;t evil.</p>&mdash; Leonardo Da Vini (@NkangLeroy) <a href="https://twitter.com/NkangLeroy/status/1510545622092468225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, it's been reported that the Apo Mosque Committee have rescinded their decision on the suspension of Sheikh Nuru Khalid.</p>

New reports have claimed that the Apo Mosque Committee in Abuja have rescinded their decision on the suspension of Sheikh Nuru Khalid.

Nigerians back Sheikh Nuru Khalid over his suspension for 'anti-government' sermon

Jude Egbas

<h1>Former President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, has appealed to traders not to hike the prices of foodstuff and staples, as Muslims commence a month-long Ramadan fast. </h1>

<p>The Sultan of Sokoto,<strong> Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar III,</strong> <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/sultan-declares-april-13-as-1st-day-of-ramadan/4fr7wvs">declared Tuesday, April 13, 2021</a> as the first day of Ramadan in Nigeria.</p>

<p>It is commonplace for prices of goods and foodstuff <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/business/how-president-buhari-can-fix-nigerias-inflation-problem-pulse-editorial/0709f4l">to spiral out of control in Nigeria </a>while the fast lasts, as traders take advantage of a rise in demand and a shortfall in supply from the farms. </p>

<p><em>“Let me appeal to our traders not to hike prices of food items and other materials which our citizens consume because of Ramadan. </em></p>

<p><em>"This holy month should not be used in exploiting our fellow country men and women. In fact, it is a time to reduce the prices and ensure that fellow Muslims and others could afford to feed well during iftar and sahur,"</em> Saraki said in a statement signed by the head of his Media Office,<strong> Yusuph Olaniyonu.</strong></p>

<p><em>“During this Ramadan, those of us who are Muslims must vow that we do not just want to be religious but we want to be God-fearing and demonstrate genuine iman (faith in Allah and His words). We must rededicate ourselves to the cause of Allah and our country,"</em> he added.</p>

<p>The ex-senate president also congratulated Nigerian Muslims and their counterparts across the world on the commencement of this year’s Ramadan fasting, while urging fellow citizens to use the period to pray to Allah to return peace, unity and development to the country.</p>

<p><em>“Ramadan is always a period of peace. Even in the period of the holy prophet, wars were not fought during Ramadan. </em></p>

<p><em>"Therefore, it is a period that can be used to pray to Almighty Allah to help us stop insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism and other forms of violence in our land. </em></p>

<p><em>"We also need to rededicate ourselves to helping our security services with prayers, information and support so that they can make a serious headway.</em></p>

<p><em>“This period of fasting is also a period that those who are privileged and blessed with resources should extend good hands of fellowship to their neighbours and others who are not so privileged. This tradition must be emphasized,"</em> he said. </p>

<p>Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar observed by Muslims worldwide as a month for fasting, prayer, reflection and assisting the needy.</p>

<p>Fasting in the month of Ramadan is a compulsory religious obligation for all adult Muslims.</p>

L-R: Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Dambazau; President Muhammadu Buhari and Senate President, Bukola Saraki

Saraki warns against market exploitation during the month of Ramadan.

Saraki begs traders not to increase prices of foodstuff because of Ramadan

Bayo Wahab

<h1>The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has said that the Ramadan fast would continue on Saturday, May 23, 2020, as the moon has not been sighted.&nbsp;</h1>

<p>According to the National Moonsighting Committee of the NSCIA, no moon has been sighted, adding that the Ramadan fast would reach 30 this year.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Shawwal 1441AH Press Release. <a href="https://t.co/xufXCsMmKE">pic.twitter.com/xufXCsMmKE</a></p>&mdash; NSCIA — Islamic Affairs (@NSCIAng) <a href="https://twitter.com/NSCIAng/status/1263939886891118597?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The sighting of the moon marks the end of the fasting period and the beginning of a new month in which Muslim faithful celebrate Eid-ul-Fitri festival.</p>

<p>While announcing the outcome of its moonsighting effort, the committee on Friday said,<em>&nbsp;“There was no positive sighting report of the Shawwal crescent in Nigeria, tomorrow is 30th Ramadan. An official statement from the Sultanate will be released shortly.”</em></p>

<p>This means Muslim faithful have one more day to observe Ramadan fast, after which the Eid-ul-Fitri would be celebrated on Sunday, May 24, 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Confirming this, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia authorities on Friday was reported to have said that,&nbsp;<em>“Saturday will be the last day of the sacred holy month of Ramadan and Eid-el-Fitr will take place on Sunday.”</em></p>

<p>According to The Punch, Religious authorities in Jerusalem, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Qatar, and Lebanon also said that Eid would begin on Sunday.</p>

Eid-ul-Fitri will be celebrated on Sunday, May 24, 2020. (Daily Express)

Eid-ul-Fitri will now be celebrated on Sunday, May 24, 2020.

NSCIA : 'No moon sighted, fasting continues on Saturday'

<h1>Coronavirus has spread to Zamfara as the north-central state became the 27th Nigerian state to record at least a case of the pandemic.</h1>

<p>The state recorded its index case on Friday, April 24, 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The State Governor,<strong>&nbsp;Bello Matawalle</strong>&nbsp;said the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) sent him a report on Friday informing him that two residents in the state have been infected with the coronavirus disease, Punch reports.</p>

<p>Matawalle, however, urged the residents of the state to take more proactive measures to curb the spread of the virus, adding that his administration has banned all gatherings including the Ramadan night prayers.</p>

<p>The governor also called on the people of the state to abide by the social distancing directives.</p>

<p>According to Punch, Matawalle maintained that the state has prepared two isolation centres and also purchased all relevant equipment for the fight against the pandemic.</p>

<p>Coronavirus cases in Nigeria<a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/coronavirus-cases-hit-1095-as-nigeria-records-114-more-cases/9mkexep">&nbsp;exceeded 1000</a>&nbsp;on Friday, April 25, 2020, after the NCDC announced 114 new cases in the country.</p>

Maharashtra's chief minister said around 70-75 percent of coronavirus cases in the state 'have very mild symptoms or are asymptomatic'

The state governor urges the residents of the state to take more proactive measures to curb the spread of the virus

Zamfara is 27th state to record coronavirus case

<h1>President Muhammadu Buhari has urged Muslim faithful in the country to ditch large gatherings and socializing as they commence the Ramadan fast on Friday, April 24.</h1>

<p>Following the sighting of the moon, the Sultan of Sokoto, <strong>Saad Abubakar,</strong> announced the commencement of the fast on Thursday.</p>

<p>With Nigeria’s confirmed coronavirus cases rising by the day, the president urged a lowkey month-long fast and the festivity that would follow,&nbsp;just as he did during the just concluded Easter celebrations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>“I congratulate all Muslims as they commence this year’s Ramadan fast which is depicted by self-denial, universal brotherhood, austerity and helping relatives and needy people,” </em>said the president.</p>

<p><em>“In this Ramadan period, the kind of socializing you are used to now risks spreading the coronavirus,”</em> Buhari cautioned.</p>

<p>He also enjoined Muslims to refrain from Ramadan rituals and traditions like group&nbsp;meals and congregational prayers that have been put on hold by Muslim religious authorities all over the world, as the outbreak forces shutdowns of whole economies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ramadan is the ninth lunar month of the Islamic calendar. </p>

<p>Regarded as sacred by the faithful, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking and sexual activities from dawn to dusk for 29 or 30 days — depending on when a new crescent is slighted.</p>

<p>The sighting of this new moon marks the beginning of another month called <strong>Shawwal, </strong>and the celebration of Islamic festival, <strong>Eid-l-fitr.</strong></p>

<p>The Ramadan ritual is drawn from Qur’an 2:183 which reads as follows: <em>“Oh you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you many learn piety and righteousness."</em></p>

<p>Most state governors have banned religious worship in mosques and churches in a bid to curb the spread of the virus.</p>

<p>At the time of filing this, Nigeria has <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/coronavirus-spreads-to-plateau-as-ncdc-announces-108-new-cases-with-3-deaths-total/pq2psy9">reported 981 coronavirus cases, </a>with 31 fatalities  and 197 recoveries. </p>

President Muhammadu Buhari. [Premium Times]

The president has called for restraint as Muslims commence a month-long fast.

Buhari to Muslims: ‘Please don’t socialize during Ramadan’

<h1>President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday in Abuja sent his best wishes to Muslims in the country and all over the world as they begin this year’s 30-day fast, following the sighting of the moon.</h1>

<p>The president, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, <strong>Mallam Garba Shehu</strong>, congratulated the Muslim Ummah as they commence this year’s Ramadan fast.</p>

<p>He said: <em>“I congratulate all Muslims as they commence this year’s Ramadan fast which is depicted by self-denial, universal brotherhood, austerity and helping relatives and needy people.”</em></p>

<p>President Buhari described Ramadan 2020 as a challenge, ”<em>falling as it is in the period of the global pandemic, which has spread to more than 200 nations.”</em></p>

<p>He noted that virtually all countries had been advising citizens to avoid large gatherings and have their prayers and meals (suhoor and iftar) individually or with family at home.</p>

<p><em>“In this Ramadan period, the kind of socializing you are used to now risks spreading the Coronavirus,”</em> the president added.</p>

<p>The president enjoined the Muslim faithful to refrain from those Ramadan rituals and traditions such as group meals and congregational prayers that have been put on hold by Muslim religious authorities all over the world.</p>

<p>Buhari also urged the Muslims to endure and not to use the Coronavirus as an excuse not to participate in the Ramadan fast, ”unless such abstention is warranted by the excuses clearly outlined by health and religious authorities”.</p>

<p>The President wished Muslims in the country and the world over all the blessings of the holy month.</p>

President Muhammadu Buhari extols the virtues of Gov. Yahaya Bello’s mother, Hajiya Hauwa Bello. [Twitter/@GovBello]

The President wished Muslims in the country and the world over all the blessings of the holy month.

Ramadan: Buhari cautions Muslims against practices that may encourage coronavirus spread

<h1>President-general of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar has announced that Ramadan will begin on Friday, April 24, 2020.</h1>

<p>He made the announcement on Thursday, April 23, saying the moon has been sighted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sultan had earlier in a statement on Tuesday urged Muslim faithful to be on the look out for the new moon.</p>

<p>The statement reads, <em>“Consequent upon the advice of the National Moon Sighting Committee (NMSC), the President-General (Sultan) enjoins the Nigerian Muslim Ummah to search for the crescent of Ramadan 1441 AH immediately after sunset on Thursday, April 23, 2020, which is equivalent to 29th Sha’aban 1441 AH,” Salisu Shehu, deputy secretary-general of the council, had said in a statement on Tuesday.</em></p>

<p><em>“If the crescent is sighted by Muslims of impeccable character on the said evening, then His Eminence would declare Friday, April 24, 2020 as the first day of Ramadan 1441 AH. “If, however, the crescent is not sighted that day, then, Saturday, April 25, 2020 automatically becomes the first of Ramadan, 1441 AH.”</em></p>

<p>As part of measures to contain the spread of coronavirus in Nigeria, Sultan also urged Muslims to shun congregational gatherings and maintain physical distancing throughout Ramadan.&nbsp;</p>

Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III

Sultan also urged Muslims to shun congregational gatherings and maintain physical distancing throughout Ramadan.

Sultan says Ramadan begins on Friday

News Agency Of Nigeria

<h1>Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has felicitated with Muslims in the state for witnessing the commencement of yet another Ramadan fasting.</h1>

<p>Makinde urged Islamic faithful to pray relentlessly during the fasting period for Allah’s mercy to end the Coronavirus pandemic ravaging the whole world.</p>

<p>The governor’s message is contained in&nbsp;a statement issued in Ibadan, on Thursday, by his Chief Press Secretary<strong>, Mr Taiwo Adisa.</strong></p>

<p>Makinde enjoined Muslims in the state to use the month-long fasting period to also pray for peace of the state and the country at large.</p>

<p>According to him, sacrifice and increased prayers are important and critical at this time when the world is fighting a vicious Coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p><em>“It is regrettable that Muslims in the state and across the country cannot observe the Ramadan the way they have been used to over the years; the situation should only be seen as part of the sacrifice we all have to make at this time.</em></p>

<p>“<em>I am aware our Muslim brothers have been told that they would not be able to gather for Tafsir, Iftar and Tarawih prayers during the month-long Ramadan, due to the restrictions brought upon us all by the COVID-19 pandemic.</em></p>

<p><em>“I enjoin you all to see this as a reflection of the sober mood the world has been thrown into due to the pandemic.</em></p>

<p><em>“Please use the opportunity of this month of blessings to seek Allah’s forgiveness to make the pandemic a thing of the past,”</em> he said.</p>

<p>Makinde further admonished Muslims to tune their minds to the messages of love, brotherliness and peaceful co-existence inherent in the messages of the Holy Prophet, while also being their brothers’ keepers.</p>

<p>The governor added: “<em>As our Muslim brothers and sisters are expected to adhere strictly to abstinence from food and other things during the month of Ramadan, I wish to enjoin them to extend their hands of fellowship to other fellow Muslims and non-Muslims alike.</em></p>

Makinde further admonished Muslims to tune their minds to the messages of love, brotherliness and peaceful co-existence inherent in the messages of the Holy Prophet.

Ramadan