"Sokoto Cleric Defies Sultan, Leads Eid-il-fitr Prayers Tuesday Amidst Controversy Over Moon Sighting Tradition"

In a bold move that has stirred controversy, Sheikh Musa Lukwa, a prominent Muslim cleric in Sokoto, led his followers in Eid-il-fitr prayers on Tuesday, in direct contravention of the directive issued by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar. The Sultan had earlier declared Wednesday as the official day for Eid prayers, following reports from the National Moon Sighting Committees across Nigeria confirming the non-sighting of the new moon.

However, Sheikh Musa Lukwa chose to disregard the Sultan's directive and conducted prayers at his Juma’at mosque around 8:30 am on Tuesday. Justifying his decision, Lukwa claimed that the moon of Shawwal had been sighted in neighboring Niger Republic on Monday, which prompted the country to declare Tuesday as the day of Eid. He argued that according to the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Muslims should observe Eid based on local moon sightings.

Lukwa's actions have sparked debate and criticism, as he has been a vocal critic of the Sultan's approach to moon sighting. He accused the Sultan of favoring the moon sighting of Saudi Arabia over local observations, which he believes goes against the traditions of Islam. Lukwa has consistently challenged the Sultan's authority on this matter and has called for a more localized approach to determining the beginning of Eid.

Despite facing backlash from some quarters, Lukwa remains steadfast in his beliefs and has challenged scholars with differing opinions to engage in a public debate on the issue. His defiance highlights the ongoing discourse within the Muslim community regarding the methods used to determine religious festivals and observances.

The situation underscores the complexity and diversity of religious practices within Nigeria and the challenges of reconciling traditional beliefs with modern interpretations. It also raises questions about the authority of religious leaders and the need for greater consensus-building in matters of religious significance.

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