The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, has urged Nigerians to pray for a smooth transition of power come May 29 when President Muhammadu Buhari hands over power to a new government.

Mr Buhari is expected to hand over power to President-elect Bola Tinubu amid contentions and litigation by major political opponents, the Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party.

Mr Abubakar made the call in a statement by the secretary general of the Jama’atu Nasir Islam (JNI), Khalid Aliyu.

Mr Abubakar, the president-general of JNI, also wished Mr Buhari a happy retreat from office.

He charged the incoming government to be equitable, just and responsive, especially in matters relating to security.

“We shall all account for our stewardships before God, and this should always worry us more and spur us to be more circumspect,’’ he admonished.

Mr Abubakar added, “May this joyous occasion be a time of happiness, peace and blessings to all Muslims and our respective families, as well as our loved ones. May God, the Most High, accept all our prayers, fasting, and good deeds during Ramadan, and may He continue to shower His grace upon us in the days and months ahead.”

He reminded Muslims about the importance of giving ordained alms at the end of Ramadan fasting, the economic challenges affecting the country notwithstanding.

“Alms should be given to the needy before the commencement of the Eid prayer. This, if promptly done, will provide assistance to those who do not have the means to take care of their families during the festivities,” stated Mr Abubakar. “Let us show kindness, togetherness and compassion to those in need as people are really in penury.”

The Muslim spiritual leader in Nigeria also admonished that the virtues of Ramadan should not end with the passing of the sacred month and called on the faithful to sustain the virtues of the holy month with conscious efforts and commitment. 

(NAN)