The Fidau prayer for the late Islamic singer, Alhaja Rukayat Gawat-Oyefeso, has been scheduled to take place on Tuesday, October 1, 2024.
The prayer, an Islamic rite for the deceased, will be held following her passing on September 23, 2024, after a brief illness.
Rukayat, well-known for her captivating voice and religious music that resonated with many in the Muslim community, was laid to rest in her husband’s hometown, Ijebu-Aiyepe, Ogun State, in accordance with Islamic rites.
Her family (Gawat) and her husband’s family (Oyefeso) have requested privacy as they finalise preparations for the Fidau and continue to mourn her.
The announcement was made by her brother, Jubril Gawat, who is a Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on behalf of the Gawat and Oyefeso families.
He shared the post on his official X and TikTok handle on Thursday night.
The singer died on Monday, September 23, 2024, after a brief illness.
She was 40 years old.
The family expressed their deep sorrow while submitting to the Will of Almighty Allah (SWT).
“It is with heavy hearts, but in total submission to the Will of Almighty Allah (SWT) that we announce the passing of our beloved daughter, sister, wife, and mother, Alhaja Rukayat Gawat-Oyefeso, who returned to Allah on Monday, September 23, 2024, after a brief illness.
“Fidau prayer will be held for her on Tuesday, October 1, 2024,” the statement read.
Family appreciates
While acknowledging the impact of her passing on many, particularly her fans and the less privileged whom she supported through her philanthropic work, the family requested that the public respect their privacy during this period.
“We kindly ask that the family be allowed to continue directing the final rites,” the family urged.
The family also expressed appreciation for the outpouring of love and support received, emphasising the need for privacy during this difficult time.
“We greatly appreciate the overwhelming love and support we have received during these difficult times. However, we request that our privacy be completely respected this time as we grieve and find the needed strength to bring closure to this irreparable loss,” the statement concluded.
Fidau
PUNCH Online reports that a Fidau prayer is an Islamic prayer held for the deceased to seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness for their soul.
It typically occurs days after burial and involves reciting Quranic verses and offering supplications. It serves to honour the deceased and provide comfort to the grieving family.
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