Emir Directs Subjects to Pray for Rain as Crops Weather

• The Emir of Muri, Alhaji Abbas Njidda Tafida, urged prayers and fasting to seek rain due to the prolonged drought affecting crops
• The drought has led to increased maize prices in Taraba State, with a 100kg bag of old stock costing N80,000

The Emir of Muri, Alhaji Abbas Njidda Tafida, in Taraba State, has instructed his subjects to pray and fast to seek rainfall. A prolonged lack of rain has caused crops in several parts of the state to weather.

This directive comes after weeks of drought that have significantly impacted agricultural activities, particularly in areas such as Jalingo, Karim-Lamido, Gassol, Lau, and Ardo-Kola Local Government Areas.

The emir also directed the Chief Imam of the Jalingo Central Mosque, Imam Nuru Dinga, to coordinate with all imams within the Muri Emirate to ensure that people in their respective areas participate in the prayers and fasting.

Reports indicate that crops such as rice, maize, groundnut, and others have begun to weather in the affected areas, with no rainfall recorded for the past four weeks.

In contrast, some areas in central, northern, and southern Taraba, where crops were planted earlier, have started harvesting.

The drought has also led to a significant increase in maize prices across the state. A 100kg bag of newly harvested maize is now being sold at N55,000, while a 100kg bag of old stock maize is priced at N80,000.