NSCIA to Muslims: observe COVID-19 protocol during I’tikaf

By Lateefat Raji and Toyosi Olufemi

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has enjoined Muslims to adhere strictly to the COVID-19 protocol during the I’tikaf.

I’tikat is a period starting from 20th Ramadan where Muslims seclude in the mosque in search for Lailatul Qadr (Night of Majesty).

NSCIA, in a statement by the Director of Administration, Zubairu Haruna Usman-Ugwu, the Council under the leadership of its President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, said: “In states where I’tikaf is permitted, Muslims are allowed to perform it while observing necessary safety measures and where it is not, Muslims are encouraged to refrain from it.

“Whichever case obtains in one’s state, the directives of state governments and health authorities on COVID-19 should be complied with”.