The Chief Imam of Apo Legislators’ Quarters’ Mosque in Abuja, Sheikh Mohammed Khalid, on Monday advised politicians to shun do-or-die politics in the interest of the nation. Khalid, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja reminded politicians to accept that power belongs to God, Who gives it to whom He wishes.
“Therefore, there is no need for killing innocent souls in the name of seeking political offices,’’ Khalid said. According to him, elections are supposed to be peaceful and orderly thereby promoting cordial relationship among different ethnic groups in the country.
“There should be a paradigm shift from `do-or-die politics’ to embracing the ideals of good sportsmanship; from selfish disposition to selfless service; from the urge to acquire more to making sacrifice.” Khalid called on supporters of politicians to realize that their lives are more important than the aspirations or ambitions of the politicians.
The cleric stressed the need for politicians to understand that leadership in Islam entails rendering of selfless service to humanity and not the other way round. “We have cited an example from the holy Qur’an, Chapter three, verse 27, where the Almighty Allah said he chooses to give power to or take it away from whomever he wishes.’’ He said that playing politics right would ensure the enthronement of internal party democracy, addressing issues of insecurity and facilitating credible elections.
Khalid urged the political class to put national interest above personal or party considerations at all times. This he said would eliminate political and electoral violence, lawlessness, intolerance and inducement of voters. The chief imam advised politicians to help in building sustainable environment for the conduct of free, fair and credible elections in 2015.
“I am optimistic that if politicians abide by the provisions of the law, we will be able to have free, fair and transparent electionsin 2015.’’ (NAN)
News source: Vanguard
No comments :
Post a Comment