TheCable

Muhammad Abubakar, Sultan of Sokoto, has called on Muslims across the country to watch for the Shawwal crescent moon on Tuesday.

This was contained in a statement issued by Salisu Shehu, deputy secretary-general, National Moon Sighting Committee.

The moon sighting in Shawwal marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and the beginning of the Eid al-Fitr festival.

He said the National Moon Sighting Committee has advised that Shawwal moon should be looked for on May 11.

The statement reads: “In preparation for the 1442 AH ‘Idul-Fitri celebrations, the National Moon Sighting Committee (NMSC) of the NSCIA has advised the President-General that the crescent of Shawwal should be searched for on Tuesday, 11th May 2021 equivalent to 29 Ramadan, 1442 AH.

“If the crescent is actually sighted by informed persons on Tuesday night and His Eminence is so advised by the experts, he would address the Press to declare Wednesday, 12 May 2021 as the first day of Shawwal (‘Id day).

“If, however, the crescent is not sighted on Tuesday night, Thursday, 13 May 2021 automatically becomes the first of Shawwal, 1442 AH (‘Id day).”

He urged Muslims across the country to watch out for the Sultan’s declaration on when to end this year’s Ramadan fast.