BY KosofePost Reporter
As Muslims across the world enter the final phase of the holy month of Ramadan, Islamic scholar Murtadha Muhammad Gusau has urged believers to maximise the spiritual opportunities presented during the last ten days and nights, particularly in the search for Laylat al-Qadr, also known as the Night of Power.
In a message marking the 20th day of Ramadan 1447 AH (March 9, 2026), the cleric emphasised that the last ten nights of Ramadan represent the most sacred period of the Islamic calendar. According to him, these nights contain Laylat al-Qadr, which the Qur’an describes as “better than a thousand months,” equivalent to more than 83 years of worship.
Gusau encouraged Muslims who may have fallen short during the earlier days of Ramadan not to lose hope. He stressed that the remaining days provide ample opportunity for believers to renew their devotion through intensified prayers, supplication, charity and remembrance of Allah.
He noted that the Prophet Muhammad increased acts of worship during the final nights of Ramadan, devoting more time to night prayers (Tahajjud), supplications and acts of charity. The Prophet was also known to wake members of his household to participate in worship during this spiritually significant period.
The cleric further explained that the exact date of Laylat al-Qadr has been intentionally concealed to encourage believers to remain consistent in worship throughout the last ten nights, particularly on the odd nights—21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 29th.
Gusau also highlighted the importance of I’tikaf, a spiritual retreat in which Muslims seclude themselves in a mosque to devote their time entirely to worship and reflection. He described I’tikaf as a powerful means of spiritual renewal and a way to minimise worldly distractions while seeking closeness to Allah.
According to him, I’tikaf has three categories: the Sunnah I’tikaf observed during the last ten days of Ramadan, the obligatory I’tikaf performed to fulfil a vow, and voluntary I’tikaf which can be observed at any time of the year.
He explained that for I’tikaf to be valid, it must be carried out with sincere intention, usually within a mosque where congregational prayers are held, while the individual remains in a state of ritual purity. Most scholars also consider fasting a necessary condition for the Sunnah I’tikaf observed in Ramadan.
Gusau advised participants to minimise distractions such as mobile phones and social media during the retreat, maintain moderation in eating and sleeping, and demonstrate patience and cooperation with others sharing the mosque environment.
He also cited the supplication taught by the Prophet to his wife Aisha bint Abi Bakr for recitation during Laylat al-Qadr: “Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni,” meaning, “O Allah, You are Most Forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me.”
The Imam added that signs traditionally associated with Laylat al-Qadr include a calm and peaceful night, pleasant breeze, possible rainfall, and a sunrise the following morning with a soft disc and without strong rays.
Gusau concluded by praying for peace, guidance for leaders, and acceptance of the fasting and good deeds of Muslims during Ramadan.
The cleric serves as the Chief Imam of the Nagazi-Uvete Jumu’ah Mosque and the late Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Okene Mosque in Okene.