Considering the fact that by Allah’s will, the last ten days of Ramadan commence on Thursday, 17th July, 2014, with its night marking the 21st night of the odd days which the night of power is sought, Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) under the leadership of His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General, uses this medium, once again, to thank Allah (SWT) for the successful start of Ramadan Fast on Saturday, 28th June, 2014, Alhamdulillah.

Bearing in mind the significance of the last ten days of Ramadan, Nigerian Muslims are hereby called upon to maximally put to use these last ten days by reciting more of the Glorious Qur’an, being punctual in observing the daily obligatory prayers, the Tarawih and Tahajjud in congregation. They are also implored to intensify their generosities in giving alms to the poor, the needy, the orphans and the handicapped in the society, especially that many families are just living hand to mouth.

More importantly, they should watch out for Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Power) which often comes up on one of the five exceptional nights within the last ten nights of Ramadan. The five nights, according to authentic Ahadith of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) are 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 29th. As always, we therefore urge Muslim faithful to intensify prayers for the Ummah against all manners of upheavals, particularly special prayers (Al-Qunuut) for the people of Borno State, the entire North East and the nation at large, should be offered, as they are being massacred with seeming impunity almost every day.

Muslims are also reminded of Zakatul Fitr (Ordained Alms Giving at the end of Ramadan Fast) which is supposed to be given out to the needy in the last three days of Ramadan or in the early hours of ‘Eid-el-Fitr day before the commencement of Salatul Fitr.

While wishing all Muslim faithful Allah's pardon in these sacred days and after, (for He cherishes pardoning His creatures), we pray fervently for His benevolent acceptance of our Ramadan Fast even as we urge all Muslims never to return to abominable acts after Ramadan. We also once again call on those who take up arms against the State to rescind their decision and become peaceful. Once again, we say RAMADAN KARIM!

•Being text of a statement entitled ‘The Last 10 Days of Ramadan’ issued from JNI H/Qs, Kaduna, by the Secretary General, Dr. Khalid Aliyu Abubakar. Photo shows JNI President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar.

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