In a contentious turn of events, Sheikh Musa Lukwa, a prominent Sokoto Muslim cleric, led his followers in observing Eid prayers on Tuesday, defying the directive issued by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar.

The Sultan had declared Wednesday as the official day for Eid-el-Fitr, based on reports from National Moon Sighting Committees across the country.

The decision of Sheikh Musa Lukwa to conduct Eid prayers a day earlier stemmed from his reliance on reports of the new crescent sighting, particularly from Niger Republic. According to Lukwa, the Council of Ulamah in Niger Republic had authenticated the sighting, leading to the declaration of Tuesday as the day of Eid in the neighboring country.

Explaining his stance, Sheikh Musa Lukwa stated, “We have a verified video clip of their council of Ulamah authenticating the report after which the country declared Tuesday as Sallah day. So it is now binding on us to observe Eid on Tuesday because this is what the teachings of the Holy Prophet says.”

The announcement by Sheikh Lukwa has stirred controversy within the Muslim community in Sokoto, highlighting the ongoing debate over the methodology for determining the beginning of Eid festivities. While the Sultanate Council, led by Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, adhered to the official report of the National Moon Sighting Committees, Sheikh Lukwa and his followers opted to follow the sighting reported from Niger Republic.

This disagreement underscores the complexity surrounding the observance of religious events in accordance with lunar calendars and the diversity of interpretations within the Muslim community. As Eid celebrations commence, the differing perspectives within Sokoto reflect the broader discussions on religious practices and traditions across Nigeria.

Source: The Sun