Why Some Muslims Observed Eid-el-Fitr On Monday In Nigeria

The Wakeelu Muslimeen of the South-West, Edo, and Delta states, Sheikh Iskil Awwal, has provided insight into why the Eid-el-Fitr congregational prayer was not held on Sunday at the Lantoro Eid praying ground in Abeokuta.

Eid-el-Fitr 2025: Why Some Muslims Celebrated on Monday

Sheikh Awwal, a prominent leader of the Egba Muslim community, clarified that the fasting period of Ramadan is traditionally expected to last for 30 days rather than 29. His statement followed the announcement made by the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, who declared that the crescent moon had been sighted on Saturday, marking the end of Ramadan and the commencement of Eid-el-Fitr on Sunday.

Prior to this, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia had also confirmed the sighting of the Shawwal moon, signifying the conclusion of the holy month of fasting. However, conflicting views arose as the Lantoro Eid praying ground in Abeokuta remained vacant on Sunday, with Egba Muslim leaders, including the Chief Imam, choosing to observe Eid on Monday instead.

Cleric Addresses the Controversy

Addressing the concerns surrounding the varied dates of celebration, Sheikh Awwal, widely referred to as Sheikh Sugar, explained that moon sightings differ across geographical locations. He emphasized that while the crescent moon may be visible in one country, it might not be seen in another, leading to variations in the Eid celebration.

He stated, “The sighting of the new moon varies globally. It could appear in Nigeria but remain unseen in Saudi Arabia and vice versa. In the case of this year’s Ramadan, it lasted for 30 days as the moon was discovered a day earlier. Consequently, some Muslim faithful observed Eid on Sunday, while others, including our community, observed it on Monday.”

Following Religious Leadership

Sheikh Awwal highlighted that both those who celebrated Eid based on the Sultan’s announcement and those who followed the Egba Muslim leadership had adhered to their religious authorities without violating Islamic principles.

“The determination of the lunar month remains in the hands of Allah, beyond human control. Therefore, whether one concluded fasting on Sunday or Monday, both decisions were guided by Islamic leadership and are acceptable in the sight of God.”

He stressed the importance of obeying Islamic scholars and clerics, as they possess deep knowledge of the faith. He concluded, “Fasting and its completion are governed by Islamic teachings. As devoted Muslims, we must strictly follow the guidance of our religious leaders.”

Conclusion

The variance in Eid celebrations between regions and Islamic communities is not uncommon. While some adherents base their observance on Saudi Arabia’s declaration, others rely on their local religious leadership. Regardless of the date, what remains essential is the sincerity of the worshippers and their adherence to Islamic teachings.