Lent/Ramadan: Ilorin’s nightlife, liquor spots fall silent

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin

As the Lenten season enters its 13th day and the Ramadan fast reaches day 18 worldwide, the holy period is taking its toll on social activities in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

During this period, both Christians and Muslims are reminded to abstain from sinful practices, in line with the teachings of their faiths.

While religious devotion is expected to continue beyond the fasting period, many who usually engage in drinking alcohol and patronizing commercial sex workers often return to their former ways shortly after its completion.

To assess the impact on social hubs, Western Post correspondent visited the commercial sex workers’ hub along Station Road, popularly known as Oju Irin in Ilorin. Unlike the usual bustling atmosphere, the area was noticeably quiet, with sex workers seen sitting outside and chatting with one another— a stark contrast to the pre-Ramadan and Lenten period.

Similarly, a visit to local dry gin spots in the same vicinity revealed a sharp decline in patronage. Before the commencement of fasting, these spots were lively, with young men frequently stopping by to purchase sachets or small bottles of gin. However, the scene was now subdued, with few or no customers.

The drop in social activities also extended to beer parlors across the metropolis. At a popular cool spot in the Geri-Alimi area, which usually saw customers as early as 9:00 a.m., the place was completely empty when visited.

Business operators in these sectors are feeling the impact of the fasting season, as many patrons have temporarily abandoned their usual habits in observance of religious obligations.

However, history suggests that normal activities will likely resume once the fasting period ends.