Senate Chief Whip, Orji Kalu, has urged the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria to use the special season of Maulud Nabiy to offer prayers for the country.

In a goodwill message, Mr Kanu congratulated the Muslim faithful in commemoration of the anniversary of the birth of the Prophet Muhammed.

He urged Nigerians to live in peace and harmony despite their cultural, religious and political differences.

The former governor of Abia emphasised that he would continue to build relationships with people of various religious faiths as a statesman and highly detrabilised Nigerian.

“The heterogeneous nature of Nigeria should be explored for growth and development as against a tool for disharmony,” he said.

Mr Kalu stressed for religious tolerance at all levels of society, adding that religious leaders have major roles to play in promoting peace and unity across the country.

He appealed to politicians not to use religious sentiments to heat the polity, adding that politics should not be seen as a do-or-die affair.

“As the 2023 general elections approach, the electorate should be wary of politicians who will use religious sentiments as tools for a campaign of calumny.

“I urge the political class to put national interest above selfish ambitions,” Mr Kalu said, wishing the Muslim ummah hitch-free Maulud Nabiy celebrations.

(NAN)