The Chief Missioner, NasruLahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT), Imam Abdul-Azeez Onike, has advised Muslims not to let down their guards, and abide by the Federal Government and health workers’ directives to contain the rampaging COVID-19 pandemic.

Onike, in a statement on Thursday, urged Muslims to do the seclusion at home during the Ramadan, now that Ramadan was over and people have the opportunity to be mobile, even, if not in full blast.

According to him, we should all know that it is our responsibility to remain prayerful, health-conscious, and go about our daily business activities without contravening laws and orders.

“As we move out after the relaxation of the lockdown imposed by the government, thereby giving us the opportunity to be mobile, you are advised to continue to make use of your Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), hand sanitizers, face masks, disposable/washable hand gloves.

“It should be noted that, in spite of the announcement of relaxation of lockdown, it is not yet ‘Uhuru’ nor is it yet time to say ‘eureka’ as the battle against the deadly pandemic is still on.

“The relaxation of the lockdown, which was announced in the middle of the month of Ramadan should ordinarily be celebrated as it falls within the last 10 days in which fasting Muslims are encouraged by the scriptures to do spiritual seclusion at Mosques.

“There is, however, need to apply caution since the battle is yet to be fully won,” he said.

Onike added that, the month of Ramadan, metaphorically speaking, was the period of spiritual overhauling.

“We have serviced our spiritual engines, it would, therefore, be foolhardy to move back pronto to the acts and attitudes that cause spiritual pollution.

“These are bickering, envy, backbiting, lying, unguarded attachment to worldly activities, lack of concern for families,” the chief missioner said.

Onike said that NASFAT, as an organization, would continue to make the welfare of its members paramount through various palliatives and unwavering spiritual support.

“Our members have been highly supportive of all the social projects aimed at assisting the government in socio-economic development.

“This is now the time to show them more love and care. Their survival is of more importance to us,” the chief missioner said.