President Muhammadu Buhari has urged stakeholders in the build-up to the 2023 general elections to shun acts of demeaning and humiliating opponents.
The President also urged Muslims to practice what he termed as the noble and shining virtues of the Prophet Muhammad, saying that “the best way to honour him is to follow his good examples.”
The message of admonition was contained in his goodwill message to Muslims on the occasion of Maulud, meant to celebrate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad.
The first Nigerian citizen noted that the prophet became famous for his life of humility, justice and fairness.
According to Buhari, the Prophet attracted people to Islam through personal examples of honesty, trustworthiness, justice, patience and tolerance.
He explained that the Prophet demonstrated “a remarkable life of patience under provocation and honoured treaties with non-Muslims for peaceful coexistence.”
He added that honesty was one of Muhammad’s greatest virtues and every good Muslim should follow his examples.
Buhari equally seized the opportunity to call on all Nigerians to join the government in ongoing efforts to eradicate insecurity and corruption; to increase their respect for women, children and the less able; and to show love and understanding for one another.
“Politicians, in this season of elections, must avoid using expletives and cuss words, and avoid the unwanted culture of demeaning and humiliating opponents,” he stated.
He re-echoed his administration’s commitment to ensure free, fair and transparent elections in 2023.