Ahead of the Eid-el-Maulud to be celebrated on Tuesday to mark the birth of Prophet Mohammed, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated all Muslims with a call on them to offer prayers for peaceful conduct of the 2019 general elections.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, in Asaba on Monday, the governor enjoined Nigerians, especially Muslims, to use the celebration as a period of sober reflection and pray for the peace and unity of the country especially as we are entering an election year.

He also advised Muslims to use the period to reflect on the challenges bedeviling our country and share with one another, to spread the virtues of peace, love and charity which the Holy Prophet represents.

Okowa enjoined Muslims to follow the exemplary leadership of the Holy Prophet Mohammed by promoting and ensuring peaceful co-existence within the society. While urging Nigerians to eschew ethnic, political and religious tendencies in all their dealings, he urged them to work towards building a secured and prosperous nation.

The Governor said the commemoration of the birth of the holy Prophet should regenerate the faith and bond of unity among Nigerians as one people and one nation irrespective of diversity.

His words: “On the occasion of the celebration of the birth of the holy Prophet, it is incumbent on adherents of the Islamic faith to rededicate themselves to upholding the admonitions of the Holy Qur’an in their personal life and in their relationship with others.

“It is therefore a call on all adherents of Islam and indeed all Nigerians to use the opportunity of the celebration of the Prophet’s birthday to reflect on the teachings of the Prophet, who lived a life of piety, prayer, honesty, selflessness, charity, tolerance, good neighbourliness, justice, equity, fairness and service to God and humanity which are indispensable in our quest for meaningful development and the profitable management of our diversity.

“My administration will continue to promote the welfare of all citizens while ensuring the protection of lives and property in the State. We remain fully committed to delivering on our promise of prosperity for all Deltans through the SMART Agenda.

“I assure all Deltans of better years ahead as we work tirelessly to bring the desired development and better living conditions for our people.

“I wish all Deltans, particularly our Muslim brothers and sisters, joyful celebrations during the holiday as I also pray for the warmth of Allah’s love to fill every home.”

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