Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III urges Nigerian Muslims to search Shawwal crescent ahead of Eid-el-Fitr celebrations

The holy month of Ramadan is drawing to a close, and Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III has urged Muslims across Nigeria to look for the Shawwal crescent on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.

The sighting will officially mark the end of Ramadan and the start of Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.

As the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, the Sultan’s guidance carries significant weight for religious communities nationwide, signaling a period of reflection, feasting, and prayer.

NBA Condemns Judge Over Courtroom Incident

In a dramatic legal controversy, the Nigerian Bar Association criticized a judge for allegedly ordering a lawyer representing activist Omoyele Sowore to kneel in court.

Reports suggest the presiding judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, instructed the defense counsel to take this humiliating posture after a dispute over courtroom decorum.

The NBA condemned the act as a violation of professional dignity, stressing that such actions undermine the legal system and the respect due to lawyers.

Damilola Ayinde Marshal Enters Lagos Political Race

Politics and music intersect as Damilola Ayinde Marshal, daughter of Fuji music legend King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, declared her ambition to contest for a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Representing Surulere Constituency II, she emphasized her commitment to advancing governance and local development.

Currently serving as Senior Special Assistant on Tourism to the Lagos State Governor, Marshal’s entry into the race adds a high-profile face to the 2027 elections.

President Tinubu Embarks on Historic UK Visit

President Bola Tinubu departed Abuja for a state visit to the United Kingdom, accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu.

The visit, spanning March 18 to 19, marks the first Nigerian leader in 37 years to be hosted at Windsor Castle by King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

The diplomatic trip aims to strengthen bilateral relations, discuss trade partnerships, and highlight Nigeria’s role on the international stage.

Ex-FCT Senator Philip Aduda Quits PDP

Former Federal Capital Territory senator Philip Aduda resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing ongoing internal conflicts as his reason.

Aduda’s departure underscores the continuing turbulence within the party, which has faced challenges in maintaining unity amid Nigeria’s shifting political landscape.

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PDP Criticizes Government Over Maiduguri Bombings

The PDP has also leveled criticism against the federal government over recent bombings in Maiduguri, Borno State, which killed at least 23 people and injured over 100.

The party accuses the administration of failing to tackle the worsening security situation, warning that violence is spreading beyond the Northeast to previously stable regions. The calls for urgent action reflect growing public concern over safety and government accountability.

Impact and Consequences

These developments have both immediate and long-term implications:

• Religious guidance affects millions of Muslims nationwide, shaping the timing of Eid celebrations.

• The courtroom incident raises questions about judicial conduct, potentially affecting public trust in the legal system.

• High-profile political entries and resignations could shift local power balances ahead of the 2027 elections.

• Diplomatic engagements like Tinubu’s UK visit may influence trade, foreign investment, and Nigeria’s international standing.

• Ongoing security crises, such as the Maiduguri bombings, risk deepening public anxiety and political criticism.

What’s Next?

Muslims across Nigeria will look for the Shawwal crescent to determine Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.

The NBA may pursue formal investigations into the judge’s conduct, while political campaigns will intensify as candidates like Damilola Ayinde Marshal mobilize support.

President Tinubu’s visit to the UK is expected to yield agreements on trade and bilateral cooperation.

Security remains a pressing concern, with calls for stronger government intervention to curb violence in Borno and beyond.

Summary

From religious observances to political maneuvers and judicial controversies, Wednesday’s headlines reflect a country juggling faith, governance, and security.

The Sultan of Sokoto has set the stage for Eid celebrations, while legal, political, and diplomatic developments continue to shape Nigeria’s landscape.

Meanwhile, security challenges remind citizens of the urgent need for effective governance and safety measures.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III urges Muslims to search for Shawwal crescent to mark Eid-el-Fitr

• Nigerian Bar Association condemns judge for allegedly ordering Omoyele Sowore’s lawyer to kneel in court

• Damilola Ayinde Marshal announces bid for Lagos State House of Assembly representing Surulere Constituency II

• President Bola Tinubu departs for historic state visit to the United Kingdom, hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla

• Former senator Philip Aduda resigns from PDP citing party crises

• PDP calls out federal government over Maiduguri bombings and worsening security situation