The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) wishes to remind all Muslims in the South West region and beyond that, as we brace for the forthcoming general elections in 2019, we have a religious and civic obligation to actively participate in all the stages of the political process either as competent candidates or active, well-informed electorate.
We must remember that all Nigerians, irrespective of their religious, cultural and social backgrounds, have equal stake in the Nigerian project. We all have a duty in determining the direction that the nation takes as we work for a better future. Thus, the attainment of the unity, peace and progress of the nation is every citizen’s duty.
As a result of this, all Muslims of voting age must see it is a duty for them to collect their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) which guarantee them a freedom of choice during the elections. In light of the current political dynamics in the country, the exercise of this freedom is a privilege which must not be taken lightly by any adult Muslim.
It needs to be reiterated that the window of opportunity for doing this is now limited as the exercise, according to the official announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), will close on Friday, August 17, 2018. Therefore, those who are yet to collect their PVCs must see it as a religious and civic obligation to make genuine efforts to do so during the remaining days.
Our people must also be adequately educated about the need for them to conduct themselves in a peaceful manner before, during and after the elections. Muslims must resist the temptation to partake in any form of electoral maleficence. We must all be guided by pristine Islamic values at all times.
In the same vein, all Muslim candidates must ensure that they distinguish themselves as men and women of unblemished character and attestable competence. They must be ready to serve the nation in whatever capacity conscientiously and responsibly. They must be legacy driven and work for the good of all. They must shun corruption and all acts that have hindered the nation’s progress. Above all, they must be ready to serve as good ambassadors of Islam.
Against this background, MUSWEN appeals to all Muslim communities and organisations to mobilise all adult Muslims to fulfil this obligation that we owe the Ummah and the nation.
Professor Dawud O. S. Noibi, OBE,
Executive Secretary/CEO
Study @ Achievers University
