Two Lagos-based Islamic clerics, Suleiman Lawal and Kamilu Omitogun have urged the Muslim faithful to pray fervently as only prayers can turn Nigeria’s challenges around for the better.

Messrs Lawal and Omitogun spoke in separate interviews on Saturday in Lagos.

Mr Lawal, a Muslim community cleric in Ayobo, said that prayer remains the only perfect solution to overcome the crisis in the country.

“As we celebrate, let’s pray for Nigeria to surmount her present challenges and leaders to succeed in their efforts so as to make life more meaningful for its citizens.”

He admonished the faithful to use the festive period to forgive one another and tread the path of peace as Nigeria prepares for the coming general elections.

Mr Lawal appealed to Nigerians to be patient, hopeful, and expectant and to put their trust in God to heal the land and the people.

In the same vein, Mr Omitogun said that fervent prayers could help restore the nation’s glory.

He urged Muslims and Christians to live in peace and shun unpleasant actions, statements and utterances that might lead to the destruction of lives and property.

“Let us guard against provocations that are capable of destroying the unity of the nation.

“Agitations for the nation to be divided should be dropped. We are better as one and must learn to live in peace with one another for the growth of the nation,” he said.

Mr Omitogun advised the leaders not to be intoxicated with power but to govern with fear of Allah as God would surely ask them how they ran their affairs while in authority. 

(NAN)