Why it matters:
The mourning rituals in Nigeria showcased the deep connection and reverence that the Shiite community in the country has for Imam Hussain and the sacrifices made by the Prophet's family.
The commemoration of Ashura serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Imam Hussain and the principles of courage, sacrifice, and devotion to Islam.
The big picture:
Hundreds of mourners gathered at Husainiyya Aali Muhammad in Bauchi state to observe the 10-day annual mourning season in which different scholars from Shi'a and Sunni deliver lectures. Also in "Madrasatu Sumayya", the Shi'a community from the "Rasoolul A'azam" Foundation observed the Muharram mourning.
In Katsina state of the North West, Sheikh Yakubu Yahaya, a prominent Islamic cleric, continues to lead the mourning. Meanwhile, in Potiskum city of Yobe State, hundreds of Muslims, comprising women, children, and the elderly, gathered to observe the 2025 Ashura mourning.
On Sunday, Sheikh Ahmad Yusuf Yashi, a senior member of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, led the mourning in Bauchi city, where a topic was discussed titled "Iran's Resistance and Self-Defense against America and Israel", a lesson for Ashura mourners in Africa."
Key Points:
- Apart from lectures on the sacrifices of Imam Hussain and his companions, the Ashura ritual activities conducted involved reciting the holy Qur'an, elegies, and poetry while simultaneously beating the chests as a symbolic act of mourning and solidarity with Imam Hussain's suffering.
Go Deeper:
International Ali Asghar (A) Day Observed in Pakistan
Zohre Khazaee
