* Berates Muslim world’s silence over Gaza genocide
Muslims gathered in large numbers today, Friday June 6 at The Muslim Congress (TMC) praying ground – Da’wah Centre, to observe the Eid-al-Adha prayer, with Imam Sheikh Dhikrullahi Shafi’i, the Grand Mufti of Conference of Islamic Organisations (CIO) leading the congregational salat and delivering a soul-stirring khutbah that touched on compassion in sacrifice, family unity, moral conduct, and the global plight of Muslims, particularly in Gaza.
In his sermon which was streamed by this medium on its official Facebook page, Sheikh Shafi’i reminded Muslims of the Sunnah regarding the slaughtering of sacrificial animals, stating that it is best for the owner to carry out the act themselves, provided they know how and are not overly compassionate to do so.
“Nonetheless,” he added, “We must treat the animals with kindness. Ensure the knife is very sharp, and never display it in front of the animal before the act.”
He emphasised the spiritual and social significance of Eid, urging Muslims to foster love within their families and promote unity among the wider Muslim community. “This is a period of joy and celebration, but that joy should not lead us into sin. We must shun all forms of haram enjoyment and uphold our values even during festivities,” he said.
Addressing a common concern, the Grand Mufti of the CIO encouraged Muslims who had observed the Eid prayer in the morning to also attend the Jumu’ah prayer, despite the difference of opinions among scholars on the topic when Eid coincides with a Friday.
“Though some scholars opine that after observing the Eid prayer, one can offer salat dhur in place of Jumu’ah, which should be done individually and not in congregation, however, the most profound among the majority of scholars is to attend Jumu’ah,” he advised.
Touching on the state of the Nigerian Muslim Ummah, the Imam decried the persistent disunity among Muslims in the country. “We are blessed,” he said.
“Nigerian Muslims have wealth and influence, yet we suffer due to a lack of empathy and unity. If we truly love one another, many of our challenges would be solved.”
The respected Muslim scholar used the platform to passionately raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
He condemned the atrocities being committed against Palestinians by Zionist forces and criticised the global Muslim leadership for failing to take a firm stand.
“The Muslim world must rise for Palestine,” he declared. “Donate, boycott the products of the oppressors, and use your social media platforms to create awareness. Expose the hypocrisy of world powers, particularly the recent U.S. veto at the United Nations that continues to empower the genocide in Gaza.”
He also made a strong call to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to recall Nigeria’s ambassador to Israel and expel Israel’s envoy from the country in protest of the ongoing atrocities.
In a message directed at Muslim women, Sheikh Shafi’i reminded them of their noble status in Islam. “The Prophet (SAW) always addressed the women in his sermons, emphasising their role in nurturing homes and building strong nations. Our sisters must uphold chastity and dress with dignity as Islam commands.”
He also extended his condolences to the government and people of Niger state over the recent flooding disaster that claimed hundreds of lives, praying for divine comfort and support for the affected communities.
The Eid Khutbah ended with the symbolic slaughtering of a sacrificial animal, in line with the Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
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