COVID-19: Council of Ulamas reacts to lifting of ban on congregational prayers in Kano

The Council of Ulama has expressed fear over the decision by Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje to allow mosques and churches to resume congregational prayers in the state.

Speaking on BBC Hausa Service, on Wednesday, Kano Chairman of the council, Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, expressed surprise that the state government did not take cognizance of increasing community spread of COVID-19 in the state in its decision.

He said the decision risks increasing the rate of infections in a state which has more cases than any other except Lagos.

Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil noted that had the government consulted with the Council of Ulamas, the governor would have been told to give priority to the health of the people.

He explained that in Islam, it is allowed not to attend congregational prayers during the outbreak of a disease so as not to jeopardise the health of others.

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Solacebase reports that Dr Abdullahi Ganduje on Wednesday announced protocols for the observance of Eid and Friday prayers in Kano

The governor’s directive was contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Abba Anwar noting that the governor’s decision was based on recommendations by 30 Islamic scholars in the state.

The statement said the governor gave the directive “after a lengthy consultation with the Islamic scholars and other government officials.

The Islamic Cleric added that for those that are with health challenges, it is advisable for them to pray at home rather than attend Eid-prayers.

He noted that there is no sin for anyone that did not go to the mosque as far as he has concrete reasons.