Femi Ipaye/Abuja

Muslim faithful running for cover in Abuja. Photo Femi Ipaye

Heavy rainfall which began suddenly and lasted for about 30 minutes prevented Muslim worshipers in and around Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory from observing the traditional prayers held to mark Eid-el-Kabir festivalon Thursday morning.

The  rainfall started at about 8.46am

It  sent  Muslim faithful,  who had begun gathering  as early at 7 a.m  at  prayers grounds around the city including the National Prayer ground, along Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport Road, Abuja and some other prayer grounds in the Federal  Capital City,  scampering for cover to prevent being drenched.

Another view of muslims escaping from the rain in Abuja. Photo: Femi Ipaye

Policemen who were deployed to provide security at the National Prayer ground also asked the worshipers to leave immediately the rain began.