The Etsu Nupe and Chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Yahaya Abubakar, has urged Muslims to emulate the virtues and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) for peace, unity and progress of the nation.

Mr Abubakar made the call on Tuesday at his Wadata Palace in Bida, Niger, during the Eid el-Maulud celebration to commemorate the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

The traditional ruler said being a Muslim was not merely about professing the faith but also demonstrating the fear of Allah and conducting oneself in a manner acceptable to fellow human beings.

He added that “it is not just enough to be a Muslim; you must also have the fear of Allah and behave in the most acceptable manner towards your fellow human beings.

“Let us revive the teachings of the Prophet by preaching peace wherever we find ourselves.”

The Etsu Nupe urged Muslims to use the Eid el-Maulud period to offer prayers for peace, unity and progress of the country.

He noted that the occasion should go beyond merrymaking to reflecting on the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad.

He said the Prophet was sent by Almighty Allah to guide humanity and teach people the virtues of peace, love, compassion, forgiveness and unity.

He added, “As Muslims who are sincere in our faith, we are supposed to follow all that the Prophet of Islam preached and taught.”

The first-class traditional ruler noted that Prophet Muhammad preached love, unity, peaceful coexistence and national development, particularly in a diverse country such as Nigeria.

Mr Abubakar also urged Nigerians to cultivate the habit of tolerance, irrespective of religious, ethnic and cultural differences.

The Etsu Nupe expressed optimism that sustained prayers would enable Nigeria to overcome its challenges.

Also, Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, urged Muslims to practise the teachings of the Holy Prophet in his Eid el-Maulud greetings to adherents in the state and the country at large.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, on Tuesday, Mr Diri said, “Eid el-Maulud is a celebration of love and the virtues of sacrifice.”

He enjoined Muslims to always strive for practical love, be their brother’s keeper and ensure peaceful co-existence with others.

He stated,  “As Muslims across the world mark the birth of Prophet Muhammad, it is a time to reflect on His ideals and teachings on love, unity, compassion and peace.

“I urge adherents of the faith to demonstrate practical love and patriotism and ensure peaceful co-existence with others. The principles of good neighbourliness and being a brother’s keeper are best manifested at a season like this.

“On this celebration of the Feast of Eid el-Maulud, I felicitate with my Muslim brothers in the state and across Nigeria. May this celebration bring greater prosperity and joy to you all and to our state.”

(NAN)