Muslim Man Slumps, Dies While Breaking Ramadan Fast in Abuja
- Abdulrasheed Usman tragically collapsed and died while breaking his Ramadan fast with friends in Gwagwalada, FCT
- The deceased, who had just returned from Kaduna, was rushed to a hospital but was confirmed dead by the attending doctor
- Usman’s remains were buried according to Islamic rites, sparking discussions about health precautions during Ramadan fasting
A tragic incident occurred in the Kutunku area of Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), on Saturday, when a man identified as Abdulrasheed Usman reportedly slumped and died while breaking his Ramadan fast.
The event has left the community in shock and mourning.
Source: Getty Images
Deceased was healthy prior to death
According to an eyewitness, Suleiman Bala, the deceased was with three friends at the time of the incident.
Usman and his companions were seated on a bench, eating fruits to break their fast, when he suddenly collapsed.
His friends quickly rushed him to a nearby hospital on a motorcycle, but the doctor on duty confirmed that Usman had passed away.
Bala revealed that Usman had just returned from Kaduna earlier that evening, arriving at approximately 5:47 pm. He had hurried to join his friends at their usual meeting spot to observe the Maghrib prayer and partake in the evening meal to break his fast.
“One of his brothers mentioned that the deceased had come back from Kaduna and went straight to join his friends where they usually gathered. When the call for Maghrib prayer was made, he joined them to break his fast, and that was when the unfortunate incident occurred,” Bala explained.
The late Usman was described as being in good health prior to the incident, making his sudden death even more distressing for his family and friends.
Following Islamic customs, his remains were promptly buried after the tragic event.
The incident has drawn attention to the physical demands of fasting during Ramadan, particularly for individuals who may have underlying health conditions or who are fatigued from travel.
While fasting is a spiritual practice observed by millions of Muslims worldwide, it is also a time when individuals are encouraged to prioritize their well-being and seek medical advice if necessary.
This year, Muslims across the globe began observing Ramadan on Saturday, following the sighting of the new crescent moon.
The holy month is a period of reflection, prayer, and community, but it also requires careful attention to health and safety.
Governor declares state-wide Ramadan break for schools
Earlier, Legit.ng had reported that the Bauchi State government had announced a five-week closure of all nursery, primary, and secondary schools to observe the Ramadan fasting period, a decision that has drawn criticism from private school owners, particularly those affiliated with Christian faith-based institutions.
According to the directive, schools will shut down from February 26, 2025, and resume on April 5, following the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
Health risks during Ramadan: Doctor advises medication compliance
A medical expert, Dr. Elizabeth Omidiora, has advised individuals with underlying health conditions to prioritise their well-being while observing the Ramadan fast.
Speaking to Legit.ng, the specialist in community health recounted a case from her clinic, stating,
"There's a patient I saw at the clinic; he actually had hypertension and Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD). He complained of epigastric pain, saying he didn’t take his medication because he was fasting. He believed taking his drugs would break his fast."
She further pointed out a common misconception among persons who avoid taking necessary medication saying:
"Some people have that mentality. My advice is for individuals with underlying conditions like hypertension or diabetes to continue taking their medication. Fasting does not interfere with the effectiveness of their drugs, and taking medication does not necessarily mean they have broken their fast.”
The physician noted that certain medications can be taken without food, reducing the concern of invalidating the fast.
"You let them know about the medication and the health implications of not using their drugs. Some refuse to take their medication throughout the fasting period, and by the time they return, they face greater health risks and complications," she added.
Citing the example of a stroke patient who suffered an emergency due to neglecting medication, she stressed:
"I counsel patients to understand their perception of fasting. Some avoid medicine due to ignorance, even educated individuals."
She recommended simple solutions, such as timing medication intake appropriately.
"After breaking their fast, they can take their drugs immediately. For those with severe ulcer conditions or other critical illnesses, they should understand that health takes precedence. After all, Muslim women on their menstrual cycle eat and do not fast. This can be likened to someone with an underlying health condition who is even at greater risk."
Dr. Omidiora urged better health education in Nigeria, where religious beliefs sometimes overshadow medical concerns.
Sultanate council announces date for moon sighting
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the Sultanate Council of Sokoto had urged Muslims in Nigeria to look for the new moon of Ramadan on Friday, February 28, 2025, which corresponds to the 29th day of Sha’aban 1446AH in the Islamic calendar.
This announcement was made in an official statement released on Thursday by Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs.
Editorial assistant Ololade Olatimehin provided exclusive commentary from a medical expert for this report.
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Source: Legit.ng
