Transition: Atiku Represents Buhari At Pre-Hand Over Special Prayers, Seeks Support Of All Nigerians

Vice President Mohammed Namadi Sambo has implored Nigerians to sustain their support and prayers for the success of the incoming administration of President-elect Muhammadu Buhari.

He gave the advice on Friday in Abuja at the 2015 Presidential Inauguration Special Jumma’at Prayers held at the National Mosque.

Buhari, who is away in London on a private visit, was represented by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar at the event, which is the first official transition programme ahead of the May 29 hand over date by President Goodluck Jonathan.

“We are praying for the successful inauguration of incoming administration of our President-elect Muhammadu Buhari and pray for the country for peace and development and for Allah’s guidance for the incoming administration to continue the progress and development of Nigeria”, Sambo said.

Atiku on his part expressed happiness that the special prayers went well and commended Nigerians for their supports and that they are looking forward to a successful transition and inauguration on May 29.

He said: “I am here to represent the president-elect with Governor (Aziz) Yari of Zamfara and some of the governors that accompany me. The prayers have gone on very well, we are grateful for all the support and cooperation of all Nigerians. We have prayed to have a successful transfer of power on the Inauguration Day which is on the 29th of May this year insha Allah”.

In the sermon translated into the three major Nigerian languages and English, Deputy Imam of Abuja National Mosque, Dr. Muhammad Kabir Adam, who also led the special prayers, urged leaders and all Nigerians to respect and protect the trust between them and the people who elected them.

He said their election or appointment is a contract and serious obligation which they must fulfill as they would be accountable to Allah on Judgment Day.

“Keeping trust is a noble trait and praiseworthy conduct. The attribute of keeping trust is the cornerstone of societal, political, religious and psychological well-being. Whoever tells you something in confidence has demanded trust of you. Thus, money in man’s possession is a trust. The citizens are a trust as well as human interactions as a whole”, Adam said.