President Muhammadu Buhari says religious leaders should not
partake in partisan politics or be involved in political controversies.
Buhari gave the
admonition while speaking at the Interfaith Conference on Religious Harmony in
Nigeria on Saturday.
According to the
president, with the influence religious and traditional leaders wield over
their followers and subjects, they are in the best position to encourage them
to “vote wisely” ahead of the 2019 general election.
“Having recognised the
role our religious leaders have been playing so far, I appeal to them to eschew
partisan politics and appeal to their respective members to read the manifestos
of each political party, discuss and pray for God’s guidance before casting
their votes,” he said.
“Religious leaders should
not be seen to involve themselves in partisan politics or political
controversies, otherwise they risk losing their status and public respect.
“On their part, the
traditional rulers are also requested to enlighten their subjects, encourage
them to ask questions and clarifications before going out to vote.
“As you are present, I
will request that you encourage your subjects to come out and exercise their
voting rights as responsible citizens.
“It is my hope and prayer
that we will even perform better in the polling stations and see to the
peaceful conclusion of the entire process without resorting to the negative use
of religion and ethnicity.”
The president urged
“aggrieved persons” to place the stability of Nigeria ahead of their individual
political ambitions and to seek redress in court where necessary.
“It is my hope that all,
who feel aggrieved will put the stability of our country first before their
political ambition, or accept the decisions of their political parties or seek
resolution through party reconciliation mechanisms or the law court,” he said.
“Very soon, political
campaigns will commence leading to elections in February next year.
“To all of us
politicians, I ask that we discharge our political responsibilities with
integrity, bearing in mind that we will one day give account to God Almighty.
“I am proud to say that
our country has moved on; the era of free money, lack of transparency and
accountability is over.”
The All Progressives
Congress (APC) presidential flag bearer said the party deserves re-election in
2019, in view of its achievements thus far.
“We deserve continuity,
we deserve a better future for the coming generations,” he said.
“I sincerely hope that
2019 will move us closer to these goals and so I look forward to a peaceful,
fair and credible election come 2019.”
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