Two days ago, my heart sank when my colleague—a devoted Muslim—confessed that he hadn’t been fasting. Shocked, I instinctively exclaimed, Subhanallah! But his reason left me speechless.
He’s not fasting because he’s struggling to survive. He’s completely broke, surviving on nothing but garri. His salary is long overdue, no one is willing to lend him money, and he simply cannot afford to feed himself. Imagine the depth of despair it takes for a practicing Muslim to forgo fasting—not out of choice, but out of sheer desperation.
I couldn’t ignore his pain. Even though I’m struggling too, I gave him a little from the little I have. Because how do you watch someone suffer like this and do nothing?
Above is a post on X (formerly Twitter) by @AdekemiSaliu and so many has reacted while some has sent money to him.
This is not just his story—it’s the reality of so many people around us, silently battling financial hardship, forced to break their faith just to survive.
I pray he receives help. I pray that those who can, step in. Because no one should have to choose between their faith and their next meal.
May Allah ease his burdens and those of everyone going through similar struggles. If you’re reading this and can help, please reach out. Someone out there desperately needs you.
