Muslim faithful of several communities in Edu and Kaiama Local Government Areas of Kwara state have suspended night congregational prayers as well as Tarawih, Maghrib, and Isha’i prayers, over fears of renewed terrorist attacks.
The curfew, which restricts movement during evening and nighttime hours has also prevented worshippers from gathering for congregational prayers, central to Ramadan observances.
According to the residents, though the curfew was aimed at improving security within the area, it has disrupted religious life.
“We have never experienced a Ramadan like this. Tarawih prayers used to overflow outside the mosque. Now only a few elderly people come, and even they leave quickly out of fear,” Residents declared
Although, the incidents of killings, kidnappings, and armed invasions in recent days have forced many villagers to adopt self-imposed movement restrictions even beyond official curfew hours.
Are emergency measures like curfews enough, or is a stronger, more coordinated response needed to restore confidence in affected areas, and how long should residents have to choose between their safety and their faith? Share your views in the comments.
