Ebola Alert: NSCIA Urges Suspected Cases To Stay Away From Congregational Prayers

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has urged persons suspected of contracting Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) to refrain from attending congregational prayers pending medical assessment, following the reported confirmation of the disease in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The council, under the leadership of the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, also called on Islamic leaders and Muslim organisations nationwide to intensify public awareness and promote preventive measures against the spread of the disease.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by its Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, the NSCIA urged Chief Imams, Islamic scholars, state councils for Islamic affairs and Muslim organisations to use Friday sermons, religious gatherings and community engagements to educate worshippers about Ebola.

The council’s advisory followed the announcement by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, concerning laboratory confirmation of Ebola Virus Disease in the FCT.

The NSCIA commended the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) for their efforts to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission.

It stressed the importance of public cooperation and awareness in supporting the national response to the health emergency.

The council’s call for suspected cases to avoid congregational prayers pending medical assessment is aimed at reducing potential exposure in places of worship while encouraging individuals with possible infections to seek appropriate medical attention.

The NSCIA urged Islamic leaders to ensure that accurate health information reaches Muslim communities through established religious platforms and other community-based channels.