Umbrella body of Nigerian Muslims, the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), has strongly opposed calls for the resignation of Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, describing them as “callous, mischievous and unpatriotic”.

JNI, in a statement issued on Thursday in Kaduna by its Secretary General, Dr. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, condemned in the strongest terms “those calling for the resignation of Professor Yemi Osinbajo, as the Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

“Whatever, the intent may be, we see such calls as callous, mischievous and unpatriotic. Moreover, why must that vacuum be created now, if not for sinister motives? We therefore call on all Jumu’ah Imams to include the matter in their respective Friday sermons tomorrow and beyond. Because in prayers we find consolation,” JNI said

On President Muhammadu Buhari, JNI expressed worry over the series of rumours making the rounds on the state of his health.

The statement said: “JNI is very concerned about the pandemonium generated as a result of the rumoured illness of the President and the dimension it is unfortunately taking. Does that mean, he can no longer get ill? Agreed that reports from the presidency stated that President Muhammadu Buhari is currently undergoing cycle of tests as recommended by his doctors, hence the extension of his leave.

“We must as patriots, be cautioned on spreading inaccurate information. More so, Muslims should be cautioned not to join the bandwagon of rumour mongers. This is so because already some unpatriotic elements are wishing that the President is dead.

Interestingly, those who wish him death will certainly not live till eternity. Aren’t we supposed to wish each other good well being? Let alone, the President of the country?

“Therefore, following the unnecessary excitement in the President’s delayed return to Nigeria, we implore all and sundry, particularly the Muslims, to persistently supplicate on daily basis for President Muhammadu Buhari’s safe return, restoration of good health and the ability to continue with the task of piloting Nigeria to greater heights with his team.

“We are all implored to fervently pray for the Nation, the Vice President, Governors and all those in the positions of authority, for Allah’s guidance in the discharge of their respective duties.”

•Based on reports by LEADERSHIP and Peoples Daily.

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