There was controversy in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital yesterday over the commencement of the Muslim Ramadan fasting.

While some Muslims commenced the fasting on Saturday as directed by Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Mohammad Sa’ad Abubakar, others said they would observe the Tarawiy prayer on Saturday (yesterday) and commence fasting today (Sunday).

Residents of Ilorin, who spoke to Sunday Trust on why they didn’t commence fasting yesterday said it was based on an announcement on the state radio, directing that the fasting would commence today.

The announcement was said to have emanated from Mogaji Nda of Ilorin and Emirate spokesman, Alhaji Salihu Woru Mohammed to the effect that fasting would commence today due to non-sighting of the crescent. 

Mohammed also told our correspondent that fasting would commence on Sunday and not Saturday.

However, scores of Muslims also commenced fasting yesterday in deference to earlier announcement by the Sultan that the moon was sighted in Kebbi, Sokoto and other parts of Nigeria.

He spoke through the Chairman, Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council, Prof. Junaidu Sambo.

Meanwhile, Chairman, Senate Committee on Environment and Ecology, Dr Bukola Saraki has urged Nigerian Muslims to use the opportunity of the holy month of Ramadan to pray for the restoration of peace in Nigeria.

Saraki, in a Ramadan message he personally signed, urged Muslims to pray for a terror-free Nigeria, saying “as we begin this Holy Month with Bizimillah, Insha Allah we shall conclude it with Alhamdulillah.

“I urge all Muslim brothers and sisters to use the opportunity of this month’s divinity to get closer to Almighty Allah and seek renewal with Allah that will outlive the Month of Ramadan, pray for restoration of Nigeria and importantly a terror free Nigeria”.