Yoruba Muslims Declare March 1 as Ramadan Start, Break from Sultan’s Tradition

In a communiqué issued by the Office of the Grand Mufti, the clerical body stated that its decision was based on astronomical calculations and resolutions from international Islamic conferences.

“The crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan will be visible after sunset on Friday, February 28, 2025, making March 1 the first day of fasting,” the statement read.

The communiqué referenced conclusions from Islamic jurisprudential councils, astronomical experts, and international conferences held in Istanbul, Paris, and within the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). It also cited a hadith of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): “Fast when you see the crescent and break your fast when you see it.”

This move signals a shift in the traditional practice where the Sultan of Sokoto, as the recognized spiritual leader of Nigeria’s Muslims, announces the beginning and end of Ramadan.

The decision could rekindle debates over religious autonomy among Yoruba Muslims, who have previously questioned the central authority of the Sultan in religious matters.

In the past, the Yoruba Nation Self-Determination Movement criticized the Sultan’s call for the adoption of Sharia law in Yorubaland, arguing that there is no Islamic provision mandating Yoruba Muslims to follow his leadership.

The communiqué further cited the resolutions of the Unified Hijri Calendar Committee and the International Fiqh Council, confirming that the astronomical new moon will occur at 12:45 AM UTC on February 28.

It emphasized that the crescent moon will be visible after sunset in multiple locations worldwide, either with the naked eye or through observation devices.

There has been no official response from the Sultan of Sokoto or the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) regarding this independent declaration.