The Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola Akinola (De-Damak), has called on Muslims and Nigerians at large to embrace the teachings and exemplary life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) by promoting unity, peace, tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
Aare Musulumi made the call in his Maulud Nabi message, released by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Faysol Oluwakemi, to mark the commemoration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
He said the significance of Maulud goes beyond celebrating the birth of the Prophet, stressing that it should provide an opportunity for Muslims to reflect on his teachings, character and commitment to justice, compassion, forgiveness and peaceful coexistence.
According to him, the life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) remains a model of leadership, humility, patience and service to humanity.
Aare De-Damak urged Muslims to demonstrate the true values of Islam through their daily conduct, stating that hatred, intolerance, violence and division are inconsistent with the teachings and example of the Prophet.
The Islamic leader also called on Nigerians to strengthen the bonds that unite them, irrespective of religious, ethnic, political or social differences.
Aare Musulumi further urged religious and political leaders to use their positions to promote justice, dialogue, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.
He emphasised that leadership should be centred on service to humanity, protection of human dignity and improvement of the welfare of the people.
He also encouraged Muslims to use the Maulud period as an opportunity for personal reflection and positive transformation, urging them to become better Muslims and responsible citizens.
Aare Musulumi prayed for peace, unity and prosperity in Nigeria, while wishing the Muslim Ummah a peaceful and spiritually rewarding Maulud Nabi celebration.