Gov. Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has urged Muslims to use the period of the Maulud to pray peace, unity and prosperity in the country.
He also enjoined Islamic clerics to desist from using expletive, cuss and unconstructive criticism against leaders.
The governor made the call while addressing Muslim faithfuls to mark the 2022 Eid-el-Maulud celebration on Sunday in Bauchi.
He said it is high time for the clerics to shun such unnecessary criticisms before their followers, adding the trend portends negative effect on leaders and the citizenry.
“Leaders carry a degree of responsibility to their followers, they are often the target of criticism.
“Religious leaders should continue to pray for those in position of authority, prayer can change negative developments,” he said.
While calling on Muslims to pray for peace, Mohammed urged the people of the state to live in peace and harmony with one another irrespective of ethnic, religious or political differences.
In his remark, Sheik Dahiru Bauchi, a famous Islamic scholar, said Maulud is a period of sober reflection and devotion rather than merry making.
Represented by his son Ibrahim, the scholar admonished Muslims to pray for leaders and peaceful conduct of 2023 general elections.
According to him, Maulud is being celebrated to mark the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) on the 12th day of “Rabi’ul-Awwal”, the third month of Islamic lunar calendar.
“Maulud celebration is a means for Muslims to express love and connect themselves to the life, message and character of the Holy Prophet, “Best of Creation”, as he is known.
“Love for the Prophet is an important tenant in Islam,” he said. (NAN)
