By Ejiofor Toochi Cynthia
Emotions are high amongst Muslims as they come together to celebrate another year of Eid al Adha otherwise known as Eid el Kabir. This feast is regarded as the biggest of the two festivities celebrated in Islam. According to Alhaji Abdulwaheed Olamilekan, the Chief Imam of Onigbongbo central Mosque, “it emanated from Prophet Ibrohim. It signifies a test of faith, obedience and has been a celebration from time immemorial.” This large feast is always marked with the slaughtering of rams, “If one isn’t opportune to slaughter ram today being Saturday, they have the chance to do so tomorrow and next; that’s the 10th, 11th and 12th day in the month of Dhu al-Hijjah in Islamic calendar.”
Although, due to the heavy rains during this period, some of the prayers and sermons had to be cut short. This was the case at the Shonibare Estate ground in Maryland where Muslims gathered. The prayers began around nine, but came to an abrupt end when the weather changed. “If it were to be just me, I would have stayed under the rain, but some people cannot exercise patience to that limit. The prayers were concluded but as I started the sermon, it began raining cats and dogs,” the Imam mentioned, on why they dispersed early. While some might not be delighted with the heavy downpour disrupting their plans for the day, Yewande from Onigbongbo sees it as a blessing. She said, “I came to celebrate with my in-laws and I’m excited. It looks like a very special year because unlike the last two years, this year came with rain.”
The Imam, regardless of the weather and festivity, still encourages Muslims to continue with their divine routine. He advised they uphold all Islamic rules and be of good conduct, “we should also use this period to make fervent supplications and pray for Nigeria. It’s no longer news that we’re facing some security challenges of late in Nigeria; Boko haram, fulani herdsmen and other unnecessary undemocratic and unconstitutional killings and societal ills.” He therefore urged all to pray for Nigeria to overcome this situation and enjoy their Eid.
Omoo, it’s been raining all day
I couldn’t go out to visit my Muslim friends
Happy Salah to y’all. 😁
This rain has indeed disrupted a lot of plans. Either ways, the celebration must continue.
Lovely read, the Imam is right. We should always remember to pray for Nigeria.
I’m just enjoying the rain and holiday. More articles from Toochi please.
Niceee