Muslims in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State have turned to prayer amid a prolonged dry spell that has begun to threaten agricultural activities in the area.
The special prayers were held on Saturday across various Eid prayer grounds in Hong, as residents sought divine intervention over the absence of rainfall and the impact on crops.
Worshippers gathered in the early hours of the day to observe special prayers and offer supplications, following days of voluntary fasting, repentance and prayers for rain.
At the Central Eid Ground in Hong, the Chief Imam, Saidu Garba, who led the congregation, urged Muslims to reflect on their conduct and avoid actions believed to attract Allah’s displeasure.
The prayer session was attended by the Executive Chairman of Hong Local Government Council, Aliyu Saad Yerima Hong, alongside other members of the Muslim community.
The development comes amid growing concerns over the effect of the dry spell on farming communities in the local government area.
Hong is one of Adamawa State’s major agricultural centres, with farmers cultivating large areas of land for crops including maize, groundnuts, rice and beans.
A prolonged absence of rainfall could therefore have significant consequences for agricultural production and the livelihoods of farmers across the area.
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The local government is also known for its large-scale agricultural activities, including cotton farming. Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, is reported to own several large cotton farms in the area.
The prayers reflect the concerns of farming communities whose livelihoods depend heavily on regular rainfall, as residents await a return of favourable weather conditions.