Is Ileya Really a Festival of Meat and Drinks, Khalifah Sheikh Ahmad Dhikrullah Asks At Jummah Service

By Ridwan Rasheed

A revered Nigerian Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Dhikrullah has urged Nigerians to reflect on the essence of the Eid ul Ahdah celebration. He noted that, “The celebration was one of temptation, sadness, and a cry, for Prophet Ibrahim.” The Sheikh likened the Prophet’s test to most men’s trials – childlessness, sickness, among others.

These were highlighted in a lecture given at the Jummah service in the afternoon of the Eid ul Ahdah celebration on Friday, June 6, 2025. This lecture was also held at the Al Haq-Deen International Islamic Centre in Orile Iyanu, Ikumapayi, Olodo, Ibadan, Oyo State.

The Sheikh beseeched the congregation to do things with the fear of God. He noted that the celebration should be with a reflection of Prophet Ibrahim’s test, win, and more cordial relationship with Allah.

Sheikh Ahmad Dhikrullah narrated the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s test, also noting that no one had experienced that great temptation after the prophet. However, he made it clear that all followers will experience temptations just like prophets had experienced, too.

The Islamic scholar said, “Whenever your temptation comes, would you pass?” He recalled that when Prophet Ibrahim passed God’s test of faith, God declared him a true friend and the father of faith.

He reminded the Muslim faithful that enduring trials and temptations is key to attaining Al-jannah. The Sheikh cited more experiences of others who have faced and also conquered life’s temptations with the help of Allah.

The Sheikh concluded his Jummah lecture by reminding everyone that some people who celebrated the last Eid ul Ahdah are no longer alive, and some who celebrated this year may not celebrate the next. He then urged everyone to pray to God for the chance to witness more Eid celebrations as the festival is beyond eating meat and making merries.