The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saad Abubakar III on Monday directed Muslims to fast on Tuesday and declared that Eid el-fitr would be observed on Wednesday.

 This is contained in a statement signed by Prof. Sambo Wali, the Chairman,Religious Affairs Committee, Sultanate Council and made available to journalists in Sokoto.

 The statement said that the directive followed the non receipt of any report of the sighting of the new moon of the month of Shawwal from the leaders of religious groups as well as the state and national moon sighting committees.

 ''Sequel to this development, the Sultan has approved the reports of the non sighting of the moon and duly declared that the moon of Ramadan has completed its 30 -day circle.

 '' Consequently, Wednesday, July 6 is the first day of Shawwal,1437 AH, and Eid-el-Fitr day.'' the statement read.