In a shocking turn of events, the Eid-el-Kabir sacrificial ram belonging to Chief Imam Abdulkadir of the Mista Ali community in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State was stolen.
The incident, which occurred during a heavy downpour on the eve of the festival, has left the community in dismay.
Imam Haruna Yaqub, addressing worshippers during the sermon after the Eid prayers, expressed deep condemnation and disbelief over the theft, labeling it as “insensitive” and a display of lacking fear for God.
“The Ram of our Chief Imam, which he purposely bought to sacrifice, has been stolen in the night. We are really shocked by the incident. We were surprised to hear this story. This means that people are not God-fearing,” Imam Yaqub lamented.
He emphasized the severity of the act, highlighting the spiritual significance of the sacrificial ritual and stressing the importance of faith and moral uprightness. “It is scary that people have gone to the extent of stealing a ram meant for religious activity,” he added.
Calling for repentance and adherence to Allah’s commandments, Imam Yaqub urged the community to refrain from criminal acts and embrace righteous living.
“Everyone will account for their actions on earth and hereafter,” he cautioned.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and concern within the community, with calls for increased vigilance and respect for religious practices during festive periods.
Local authorities have been urged to investigate the theft and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice, while efforts are underway to replace the stolen ram to enable Chief Imam Abdulkadir to fulfill his religious obligations.