Beware Of COVID-19, Buhari Tells Muslims As Ramadan Begins

President Muhammadu Buhari has advised all Muslims to refrain from the usual Ramadan traditions such as group meals and congregational prayers because of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Buhari, who gave the advice in a congratulatory tweet on his handle on Thursday, said “These are also challenging times for us all. In this Ramadan period, the kind of socializing you are used to now risks spreading the Coronavirus.”

According to him, virtually all countries are advising citizens to avoid large gatherings and have their prayers and meals individually or with family at home.

Part of his tweet reads “I congratulate all Muslims as they commence this year’s Ramadan fast, which is depicted by self-denial, universal brotherhood, austerity and helping relatives and needy people.

“Virtually all countries are advising citizens to avoid large gatherings and have their prayers and meals individually or with family at home. We must all refrain from usual Ramadan traditions such as group meals and congregational prayers, because of the Coronavirus.

“But the pandemic must also not be used as an excuse not to participate in the Ramadan fast, unless such abstention is warranted by the exemptions clearly laid out by health and religious authorities.

“I wish all Muslims in Nigeria and the world over all the blessings of the holy month.”