Sallah: Sultan tasks Muslims on Arafat Day fast

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) headed by its President-General and Sultan of Sokoto Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar has congratulated Nigerian Muslims and their compatriots worldwide on the auspicious occasion of the 1438AH ‘Idul Adha celebrations.

The Deputy Secretary-General of the council Prof. Salisu Shehu in a statement yesterday prayed to Allah to grant the opportunity to witness more of it.

“This year’s ‘Id is particularly significant. There will be three sermons (Khutbah) within the span of two days - the Khutbah of ‘Arafat on Thursday, 9th of Dhul-Hiijah, 1438AH (August 31, 2017) and the khutbahs of ‘Id and Jumu’ah on Friday, 10th Dhul-Hijjah, 1438AH (September 1, 2017).

“According to the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad, Muslims who are not on pilgrimage are enjoined to fast on the day of ‘Arafat and engage themselves in acts of worship with the conviction that Allah will forgive our sins of the preceding and proceeding years and admit us to His Jannah,” Shehu said.

He urged Muslims to remember that ‘Idul Adha symbolizes piety, as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim and thus calls for sober reflection, submission to the will of Allah, and sincerity of purpose from all.

He said: “We urge all Nigerian Muslims to continue to be good ambassadors of Islam as we continue to promote and embrace peace, justice and righteousness, which are the hallmarks of our religion.

“The council beseeched Allah to restore peace and stability to all the troubled parts of our great country and the entire world. We also pray unto Allah to grant our President, Muhammadu Buhari, sound health and wisdom to be able to steer the affairs of our beloved country Nigeria to greatness.”