Muslims in Nigeria mark Tasua to commemorate Imam Hussein (AS)

Muslims in Nigeria have joined millions of their counterparts around the world to mark Tasu'a, the 9th day of the Muslim month of Muharram, a day before the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS), the third Shia Imam.

The day is devoted to Abbas Ibn Ali (AS), the half-brother of Imam Hussein (AS) and the flag-bearer of Imam Hussein's caravan. Abbas was martyred while he tried to bring water back to the camp of the Imam for the thirsty women and children who had been left without any water for days due to a siege by the enemy.

As one of the most important days in the Islamic calendar, Tasu'a is the day of loyalty and resistance epitomized by Abbas' sacrifices in the battle of Karbala.

It is the day when Shimr bin Ziljaushan, the murderer of Imam Hussein (AS), arrived at the battlefield of Karbala, just a day before Ashura when Imam Hussein were martyred in 680 AD along with his 72 companions.

Muharram is one of the most sacred months in the Islamic calendar because of the sacrifices that were made by the family of Prophet Muhammad to establish the message of humanity.

The first ten days of the month hold the most significance during which the battle took place. The rituals around the world during these ten days differ with local traditions and customs, but lamenting over the martyrdom is common everywhere.

At least three people were killed and a dozen more wounded after police forces attacked a commemorative Ashura mourning procession held by local Shia Muslims in Nigeria’s northern state of Sokoto last year 2021.