Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President and has said that the coronavirus pandemic in Nigeria is a test from God.
He said in Islam, Muslims are taught to believe that nothing happens without the permission of Allah.
In his Sallah message he posted on his Twitter page, Atiku urged Nigerians to continue to abide by the guidelines issued by health authorities.
He said,
“The current situation of the COVID-19 pandemic is a test from Allah and, having fasted as we are enjoined as Muslims, let us continue to remember that it is part of our faith to protect all lives and to abide by regulations from those in authority, especially during a time of great uncertainty like this.
“Those protocols about avoidance of crowded places, social distancing and regular washing of hands are for our own benefits and the benefits of humankind in general.
“As Muslims, it is incumbent upon us to do our best both in action and in prayers to ensure that the world is healed of this deadly virus in the earliest possible time.”
Atiku also advised governments at all levels to prioritise the welfare of the people when planning for the post-COVID-19 era.
“People in leadership positions all over the world should learn from countless examples of how Prophet Muhammed (SAW) and his immediate disciples took the welfare of the people as a priority in the administration of a state.
“This time calls for sacrifice in leadership. This is no time for extravagance and living in luxury. This year’s Eid-el-Fitr celebration is already a special one.
“But I wish all Nigerian Muslims and their counterparts across the world a more special celebration, filled with pleasant moments as we pray together and enjoy the day with our families.”
The COVID19 pandemic is a test from Allah and, having fasted as we are enjoined as Muslims, let us continue to remember that it is part of our faith to protect all lives and to abide by regulations from those in authority, especially during a time of great uncertainty like this.— Atiku Abubakar (@atiku) May 23, 2020