The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) yesterday urged President-elect Muhammadu Buhari not to disappoint Nigerians.

The Islamic body is headed by the head of Nigerians Muslim Umma the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar.

Secretary General of the council, Prof Is-haq Oloyede, told reporters in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, that the body wishes that Buhari should be prayerful and “focus your attention on how to heal the wounds of Nigeria.”

The former vice chancellor of the University of Ilorin directly addressing Gen. Buhari, said: 

“Nigerians have great expectations from an incorruptible man, a role model, a gallant officer and distinguished statesman who they could not be induced by money to abandon.

“As you are set to commence this onerous task before you, we urge you to be careful of those who hail you and reflect on the criticism of your critics. Know that every failure is a test and every success is a trial. You have passed the test of past failures and it is the wish of the Almighty Allah to try you with success. For every action, there is a reaction; for every opportunity, there is responsibility and every appointment, there is accountability before man and Allah.

“We pray that Almighty Allah endows you with more wisdom, knowledge, courage and sincere lieutenants to move Nigeria to the next level greatness. We pray that Allah makes you an instrument to heal Nigeria from the various vices that have taken her captive. We wish you success while hoping that the change Nigeria deserves, which you represent, will ultimately materialise.”

He added: “We wish to commend you for the way and manner you conducted yourself during the electioneering campaign, which showcased the beauty of Islam and projected you as a good ambassador of faith who would not descend low to engage in frivolities, despite provocation. Your comportment and demeanour had gone a long way in promoting all that you represent.”

The NSCIA scribe also hailed President Goodluck Jonathan for accepting defeat like a good sportsman.

Prof Oloyede said “by that singular and epochal action Your Excellency took by congratulating the winner of the presidential election even before the final result was pronounced, you have taken leadership to a new height and you have honoured Nigeria in the eyes of the world. More importantly, you have effectively preserved the peace of the nation.

“You have etched your name in gold in the history of our nation. Under your watch, Nigeria has organised the best election in her history and it is satisfying that the American ambassador to Nigeria was reported to have said he would recommend a component of our electoral process to his country, which means your administration has positively impacted on the electoral process.

“Human beings are fallible and you have your own weaknesses like the rest of us. We pray that the 

Almighty Allah forgives your lapses and directs your future course. Nigerians are indeed proud of you and we are proud to associate with your courage and magnanimity.”