Thousands of Muslim faithful gathered at the Eid Prayer Ground in Kantudu Quarters, Gumel Emirate of Jigawa State, on Saturday to offer Salatul Istisqa, a special Islamic prayer for rain, as drought fears grow across the region.
Organized by the Gumel Emirate Council, the prayer session was led by the Chief Imam of Gumel, Dr. Kabiru Usman, under the guidance of the Emir of Gumel, Dr. Ahmad Muhammad Sani. The mass gathering drew participants from nearby towns and villages, including local farmers, traders, religious leaders, and government officials.
“We are gathered here today to seek Allah’s mercy and provision of rain. We pray for His benevolence and kindness toward our land,” said Imam Usman in his post-prayer sermon.
Climate and Community Response
Gumel, situated near the Niger Republic border, is naturally dry and experiences one of the shortest rainy seasons in the country, typically lasting only three to four months. With recent forecasts predicting partly cloudy skies and minimal rainfall, the urgency to pray for divine intervention has never been greater.
Temperatures are currently hovering between 34°C and 38°C, with humidity levels fluctuating between 40% and 70%, compounding the region’s vulnerability to drought and water shortages.
Speaking to Hobnob News, Aminu Saddiq, a Gumel resident, said:
“We’ve been battling with drought concerns since the start of the season. I’m hopeful our prayers will bring rain soon.”
Lawal Muhammad, a local farmer, echoed this sentiment:
“It’s been a tough period for us farmers. We need rain urgently to save our crops.”
Aisha Sallau, a trader and mother of four, added:
“Participating in this prayer gives me hope. I believe in the power of our collective supplications.”
Abdullahi Aliyu, a farmer from Dantanoma, voiced deep concern about the possible failure of the planting season:
“If rain doesn’t come soon, we could lose everything.”
Religious Significance
Salatul Istisqa, the Islamic prayer for rain, holds deep spiritual meaning. It is typically performed during extreme weather conditions when rainfall is desperately needed. The ritual serves as a public demonstration of submission to Allah and a plea for His mercy.
Ustaz Muhammad Ahmed, a respected Islamic cleric in Gumel, highlighted the prayer’s importance:
“Salatul Istisqa reminds us that we rely entirely on Allah for provision. This moment also calls for personal reflection and repentance.”
A Community United in Faith
The event not only provided a platform for spiritual appeal but also served as a reminder of the resilience and unity of the Gumel Emirate. As families, farmers, and leaders stood shoulder-to-shoulder under the sun, their collective hope was unmistakable.
The Emirate has vowed to continue praying and seeking divine mercy until the rains arrive—an act that embodies both their faith and their fight against the harsh realities of climate change.
