Top government officials including Katsina State Governor, Aminu Masari, were absent at the praying grounds as Muslim faithful in the state joined their counterparts around the world to celebrate this year’s Eid-El-Fitr.
No official explanation has been given for the absence of the Governor at the prayers despite being present in the state. He is usually accompanied by other top government officials to the Usman Danfodio Praying Ground.
His absence may, however, not be unconnected with the directive of the Federal Government for stay-at-home and observance of the Eid prayers with family members.
On his official Twitter handle @governormasari, he prayed to God to bring to an end, the heinous activities of bandits and the COVID-19 disease.
As we mark the end of Ramadan with Eid Al Fitr, I fervently pray to Almighty Allah, in His infinite mercy, to forgive our shortcomings, accept our Ibadah and answer our prayers. May He bring to an end, the heinous activities of Bandits and the scourge of #COVID19 pandemic.
— Aminu Bello Masari (@GovernorMasari) May 24, 2020
Most of the praying grounds visited across the state capital were scanty with the faithful both young and old not observing the social distancing rule even though some were seen wearing the facemasks.
The one-week ease of lockdown in the state ends on Monday. It is, however, not clear whether the state government will extend it to allow for the celebration of the Eid during the 2-day public holiday declared by the Federal Government.
