ABUJA – Some Muslim Scholars have urged Nigerian politicians to work for free and fair elections, and [pro_ad_display_adzone id=”8″]devoid of violence.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Monday, the scholars also advised Nigerians [pro_ad_display_adzone id=”10″]
to pray for peace during and after the polls.
Alhaji Mustapha Agberere, a prominent Muslim scholar based in Abuja, advised the politicians not to be [pro_ad_display_adzone id=”10″]
desperate as leadership came from God.
“Islam does not encourage potential leaders to exhibit desperation in their bid to become leaders [pro_ad_display_adzone id=”10″]
because Allah appoints whoever He wills as leader
“Leaders are equally admonished to be just, trustworthy, and should not abuse any leadership positions they occupy and should not be involved in violence.
“Prayers are important to douse tension and I encourage Nigerians to intensify their prayers as the elections approach,’’ Agberere said.
Alhaji Sharafadeen Aliagan, Chief Missioner of the Abuja branch of Nasirul-Fathi (NASFAT) Islamic Society, made similar a call.
Aliagan said that Nigerians needed to intensify their prayers for peace as the elections approached.
“Elections will come and go but the country has to exist as one indivisible entity.
“Islam is about peace and every Muslim should be peaceful and civil in his conduct toward the elections,” he said.
Alhaji Abdulgafar Sanusi, Chairman of NASFAT, Kubwa branch, also advised Nigerians to pray for peaceful elections.
He said that there was also the need to create awareness in the minds of all stakeholders on the need to regulate their conduct during and after the elections.
“The forthcoming election is a strategic event in the history of our nation and it will go a long way in defining our corporate existence.
“It is necessary for all well-meaning compatriots to pray and work for enduring peace as the elections approach,’’ he said.
Prof. Lai Olurode, a Federal Commissioner in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), said that the commission recognised prayer as an important tool for success.
He assured that INEC would do everything possible to ensure that the 2015 elections were free, fair and credible.
“ It is always advisable to seek divine guidance and support in whatever we do and this election is not an exception.
“We appreciate groups and individuals that have been supporting us with prayers and we encourage them to continue,’’ Olurode said. (NAN)