Sheikh Yahya Al-Yolawi, Chief Imam of Area 10 Jumma’a Mosque in Garki, Abuja, has cautioned traders against undue price hikes of food items as the Islamic month of Ramadan approaches.

The cleric made the call while addressing worshippers in a sermon titled; ‘Tips for Ramadan Preparation’ during the Jumma’a service on Friday in Abuja.

The month of Ramadan is the ninth month on the Islamic calendar, and is the month in which the Holy Qur’an was revealed.

Ramadan is regarded by Muslims as the best month of the year, and the month of earning multiple rewards and forgiveness from God.

Fasting in the month of Ramadan is one of the five known pillars of Islam.

The 2023 month of Ramadan is expected to start on March 21 or 22, subject to the sighting of the moon and confirmation by the office of the President-General of Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar.

Mr Al-Yolawi appealed to traders, businessmen and women to fear Allah and maintain the prices of essential things needed during the Ramadan fast.

“In fact, it will be even more encouraging to have Ramadan Bonanza than to increase the prices of food items because of Ramadan,” Mr Al-Yolawi said.

He said that charity is of the deeds highly encouraged in the month of Ramadan.

“It was narrated by Ibn ‘Abbas that Prophet Muhammad was the most generous person, and he used to become more generous in the month of Ramadan.

“In this month, Allah opens the gates of paradise and closes the gates of hell, and put the devil in chains. The Messenger of Allah says when it is the first night of Ramadan the devils are chained.” 

(NAN)