Coronavirus Pandemic
THE Chief Imam of Ado, Sheikh Jamiu Bello, on Friday urged Nigerians especially Muslims, to seek divine intervention to end increasing deaths following COVID-19 complications.
Bello, who is also President-General, League of Imams and Alfas in Southwest, Edo and Delta, gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ado Ekiti.
According to him, the deaths of notable personalities, especially the former Oyo State Governor, Isiaka Ajimobi and other citizens, over COVID-19 complications, is a source of concern to everyone.
“The death of Ajimobi shortly after that of Senator, representing Lagos West Senatorial District and other citizens is one too many and required prayers of every Nigerians.
“The non-observant of the daily and Juma’at congregation prayers in our mosques due to the COVID-19 lockdown should not be an excuse for not engaging in prayers to end these pandemic casualties.
“It is the duty of every Muslim, especially during any disease outbreak as being experienced presently, to engage in fervent prayers and a possible period of fasting in seeking for God’s divine intervention,” he said.
“As we approach the Sallah celebration, we need to be more prayerful, so that the lockdown on mosques can be lifted to allow for congregational prayers during Sallah as we are used to.
“The same thing applies to daily and weekly Juma’at prayers. When the COVID-19 situation improves, the lockdown will be relaxed accordingly and we can continue our prayers in various mosques,” Bello said.
The Chief Imam was sad over the increasing number of COVID-19 cases across the country and called for strict compliance with laid-down measures and directives toward curbing its spread.
He also called on wealthy individuals and groups to imbibe the habit of extending their hands of assistance to the needy and less privileged in cushioning the effect of the lockdown.
“We, as law-abiding citizens, should ensure total compliance with the various measures and directives geared toward curtailing the community spread of COVID-19.
“Maintaining social distancing, regular washing of hands in running water and wearing of face masks should be part of our daily obligations, not only to guide us but so as not to put the health of others in jeopardy.
“Our actions and inactions in dealing with the pandemic will go a long way to determine the success or otherwise of government efforts toward eradicating the virus.
“The rich are enjoined to extend their hands of assistance to the less privileged in the society, especially those whose jobs and businesses have been affected by COVID-19,” he said.
Bello also used the opportunity to call for special prayers for those at the front line of fighting against COVID-19 pandemic spread.
”The doctors, nurses, journalists, the authorities, and even the scientists who are working day and night to find workable cure needed our prayers to achieve the desired success,” he said.
Bello said that the citizenry should reflect on their past misdeeds, shortcomings, sought forgiveness, and return to God in righteousness.
“We need to re-appraise our dealings with Almighty Allah and fellow humans and seek for His favour if we realise to have derailed from the teachings and commandments, especially as we approach the Sallah festivities,” he said. (NAN)
– Jun. 26, 2020 @ 15:45 GMT |
Tags: COVID-19: Chief Imam urges Nigerians to pray for divine intervention
