The president-general of Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar, has congratulated Gen Muhammadu Buhari on his victory at the poll.

Speaking through the NSCIA secretary-general, Prof Ishaq Oloyede, the Sultan urged Buhari not to disappoint Nigerians who voted him into power.

Addressing a news conference in Ilorin, Kwara State yesterday, Oloyede described Buhari's election as overwhelming.

In the same vein, the religious body commended President Goodluck Jonathan for displaying unprecedented leadership by not only conceding defeat in the presidential poll, but congratulating the winner.

"By the singular and epochal action Your Excellence took by congratulating the winner of the presidential elections, 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," NSCIA stated.

On Buhari's election, the religious body stated:

"We also 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 frivolity, despite provocation."

The Islamic group reminded the president-elect that it is up to him now to use his mandate for advancing the cause of the nation.

"In the same vein as congratulatory messages pour in, we enjoin you to remain prayerful and focus your attention on how to heal the wounds of Nigeria.

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.

"It is your responsibility not to disappoint the teeming majority, the masses especially who sacrificed their time, energy, and lives because their hope hangs on you.

"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 for every opportunity, there is a responsibility and for every appointment, there is accountability before men and Allah."