In response to the emotional and passionate call to the people of goodwill by a former Nigerian President, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to pray for his family, especially his Mum, who is currently mourning the death of one of his two surviving children, Madam Obebhatein Jonathan, Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT) remembered the grieving, mourning and highly traumatized mother of the former president, Mama Eunice Afeni-Jonathan.
While conducting the prayer, the Chief Missioner of NASFAT, Imam Abdul-Azeez Onike said that he was personally moved by the statement of the former president that his mother has now lost eight children, leaving him as her only surviving son
Onike adds that, while the position of Islam is clear on the prohibition of prayer for a dead non-Muslim, a Muslim is encouraged to share in the grief of a living being and condole him for the sake of humanity regardless of his religion, race or sex referencing the fatwa of the Permanent Committee for Research and Fatwa, ‘if the condolences are intended to encourage people to be more inclined to Islam, it is appropriate.
This is encouraged by Islam.’ The Committee also says: ‘It is proper to offer condolences, but without praying for the forgiveness of the deceased.[2]
He also cited an instance in which the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saws) visited a sick young Jewish boy.
The former president had reportedly made the call on Friday 16th February, 2024 at Otuoke, Bayelsa State.While referring to his mother at that occasion, Dr Jonathan said, ““If you knew what she used to be and what she is now, you would know that she is still traumatized. So continue to pray for my mum. God will see us through. I thank you.”
Onike conclusively prayed to Allah to grant the Former President’s mother and her family the fortitude to bear the loss, while praying for his congregation that Allah (swt) should spare them the agony of losing their children. Amin kunfayakum.
