The Chief Whip of the Senate, Sen. Orji Kalu, has urged Muslims to use the occasion of the Eid-el-Maulud to pray for the nation, to be celebrated worldwide on Tuesday, Oct. 19.

He made the call in a goodwill message to mark Eid-el-Maulud, the birthday of prophet Muhammad (SAW).

Prophet Muhammad was born on 12th of Rabiu’l Awwal, the third month of the Muslim calendar in the year 570 AD in Mecca, a mountain town in the high desert plateau of western Arabia.

While acknowledging the imperative of peaceful co-existence among all ethnic groups in Nigeria regardless of religious faith, Kalu urged religious leaders to use their platforms to advance the cause of nationhood.

He pointed out that no country could develop in an atmosphere of disharmony.

The former governor of Abia admonished the Muslim community to uphold the exemplary life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

He said that the occasion of the Eid-el-Maulud was an opportunity for Muslims across the globe to imbibe the teachings of the holy Qur’an as exemplified by Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

He said “I congratulate our Muslim brothers and sisters on the occasion of Eid-el Maulud, which commemorates the anniversary of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

“It is a season for Nigerians regardless of age, tribal, political and religious differences to pray for leaders at all levels of government.

“The Muslim ummah must celebrate the occasion by adhering to the tenets of the holy Qur’an and exemplary leadership qualities of Prophet Muhammad in their daily pursuits.

“As a nation, we must shun actions that can polarize the country. We must sustain peace and unity in our communities, states and at the national level. Let us use this festive season to show love, affection, piety and service to humanity.”

He wished the Muslim community a hitch-free Eid-el Maulud celebration, as Federal Government declared Tuesday, Oct. 19 as work free day.