The Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Area Unit has urged political leaders in the country to sacrifice their personal interest for the nation’s development.
The Amir (President) of the MSSN in Lagos State, Dr Saheed Ashafa, made the appeal in a press statement to congratulate Muslims on the 1439 AH Eid-el Adha, holding on Tuesday, August 21.
In the press statement tagged “Eid Message”, Ashafa urged Muslims and Nigeria leaders to emulate the virtues of Prophet Ibrahim who was willing to sacrifice his precious son, Ismail.
According to him, one of the greatest gifts that Nigeria leaders can give at this special moment is to resolve to work for the country’s growth regardless of which party or group they belong to.
He said, “We congratulate Muslims all over the world for witnessing this year’s Eid-el Adha. We pray Almighty Allah accept our sacrifices and increase our piety in this season of love, peace and togetherness. We urge our Muslim brothers and sisters to reflect and imbibe the religious benefit of this festival by extending the hands of friendship to others.
“As Muslims continue to pray for the growth of this country, we appeal to political leaders in the country to put aside religious and political differences, including personal gains aside for the stability, unity and growth of our dear country, Nigeria. It will be impossible for the country to be stabilised in a situation where almost every leader are gunning to achieve personal interests and gains.
“At this stage in the life of our country, there is an inevitable need for leaders to be passionate about the development of the country and have the understanding that they will one day stand before Allah (God) to account for their deeds (actions).”
Apart from urging Muslims to pray for the growth of the country, Ashafa urged them to “pray that God will continue to guide our leaders to steer the affairs of this nation in the right direction.”
He also urged security operatives to be at alert and ensure safety of lives during the festive period and continuously in the country.