‘No Congregational Prayers, Tafsir During Ramadan’

As Muslims the world over commence the Ramadan fast for Hijrah 1441 A.H. today, they have been urged to adhere strictly to all the guidelines of government and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) so as to protect themselves from contracting the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Chief Imam of Osogboland, Sheik Musa Animashaun, in an exclusive interview with OSUN DEFENDER noted that Taraweeh prayers in congregation as well as Tafsir during the day are all prohibited in line with the current emergency regulations of the state.

Animashaun, who doubles as the Chairman, League of Imams and Alfas in the State of Osun encouraged well-meaning individuals in the society to do more in providing food to the less-privileged in the society vis-a-vis sponsoring lectures on the broadcast media to fill in for the Tafsir programmes which are under ban.

The cleric also called for fervent prayers from adherents of Islam in the month of Ramadan to seek Allah’s intervention in getting a lasting solution to the pandemic in no distant time.

Animashaun said “As we begin the Ramadan fast, I urge everyone to remain indoors in line with the directive of the government. Everyone should endeavour to observe the Taraweeh and other prayers within their households and as well observe social distancing rules.”

“We should remain steadfast in prayers to have a solution soon for COVID-19. Our people should be kind to the less privileged and provide food especially for the needy at these perilous times. We have a duty to protect ourselves and our families from the deadly virus.”

“I am also appealing to all Imams to educate their people and households around them to please stay at home. We should remain united and call on Almighty Allah to save us from this crisis. May Allah spare our lives till the end of Ramadan. We should imbibe the lessons of giving, sacrifice, piety and all other attributes of humanity in this month and beyond.”