The Grand Mufti of the Conference of Islamic Organisations (CIO), Sheikh Dhikrullah Shafi’i, has reiterated that the authority to announce the beginning of Ramadan does not rest with individuals, warning that unilateral declarations threaten unity within the Muslim community.
He made this position known during a pre-Ramadan seminar organised by the CIO at the Beleke Smith Memorial Mosque in Surulere, Lagos. The seminar, themed “Ramadan: Mercy to Mankind,” attracted Islamic scholars and representatives of various Muslim organisations across the state.
Among those present were Ustadh AbdulRasheed Sulaiman, Principal of Ma’hadu Dawatus-Salam; Sheikh Isa Siddiq, Director of the institution; Shaikh Haka Zalika; Alhaji Abdullah Afolabi; Shaikh Miqdad Daud; Imam Eyiowuawi, Chief Imam of Obanikoro Central Mosque, Kosofe; and Shaikh Murthadoh Salaudeen.
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Speaking at the gathering, Sheikh Shafi’i stated that the CIO remains firmly aligned with the leadership of Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, who serves as President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA).
According to him, Muslims in Nigeria are expected to await the official declaration of Ramadan from the Sultan, in line with guidance issued by recognised Islamic authorities, including the Chief Imam of Lagos State and other state chief imams.
“Moon sightings should be reported to constituted authorities. No individual is permitted to act independently in matters that concern the entire Ummah,” the Grand Mufti said.
Islamic precedent and leadership
Sheikh Shafi’i explained that Islamic tradition clearly places the responsibility of declaring Ramadan in the hands of recognised leaders, whether known as ameer, waali, or qaadi. He noted that personal moon sightings must be verified and approved by such authorities before any public announcement is made.
He cited historical accounts showing that notable companions, including Abdullah ibn Umar and Abdullah ibn Abbas, reported moon sightings directly to Muhammad (SAW) rather than acting on their own judgment.
The Grand Mufti added that while the process of announcing Ramadan may differ from one country to another, the recognised authority in Nigeria remains the Sultan of Sokoto.
Warning against division
Sheikh Shafi’i cautioned against attempts by some groups to introduce ethnic or regional sentiments into religious matters, describing such actions as harmful to Muslim unity.
He recalled how divisions between the Muhajirun and Ansar during the time of the Prophet were promptly addressed to prevent fragmentation of the Ummah.
“Islam does not recognise a North–South divide. Personal disagreements must never be dressed up as religious causes,” he warned.
Commendation for Sultan’s efforts
The CIO Grand Mufti praised the Sultan of Sokoto for his continuous efforts to strengthen unity among Muslims nationwide. He highlighted initiatives such as engagement with Yoruba Muslim leaders, the establishment of a national moon-sighting committee, and investment in modern moon-sighting equipment across several states, including Lagos.
He also urged Muslim leaders to act with sincerity and justice, advising against blind loyalty while encouraging constructive counsel whenever leadership decisions require correction.
Ramadan as mercy and character building
Earlier, Sheikh Isa Siddiq described Ramadan as a profound mercy from Allah, explaining that fasting nurtures taqwa (God-consciousness), which ultimately leads to righteousness.
Quoting Qur’an 2:183, he said fasting disciplines the soul, restrains sinful desires, and acts as a shield against immoral behaviour. He further emphasised the importance of charity during the holy month, urging Muslims to support the poor, widows, the sick, and mosques.
“Ramadan reforms character and strengthens the habit of doing good,” he said.
The seminar ended with a collective call for obedience to established Islamic leadership, unity among Nigerian Muslims, and the proper observance of Ramadan in accordance with authentic Islamic teachings.
