Religious movements should assist African countries to rid themselves of the scourge of corruption.

The movements were also enjoined to work for cementing of their continental relationships and peaceful coexistence.

President Muhammadu Buhari who gave the charge when he received the Grand Khalifa of Tijjaniyya Islamic Movement Worldwide, Sheikh Muhammadul-Kabir, commended them for their commitment to spiritual cleansing.

Buhari said while the evil of material corruption seeks to undermine the dignity and worldly existence of man, moral and spiritual corruption seek to destroy man and condemn him to perpetual punishment by his Creator.

President Buhari further commended the commitment of the Tijjaniyyah Islamic movement to spiritual cleansing, as well the peaceful conduct of its activities in Nigeria.

He said: “The Tijjaniyyah adherents are peaceful and never found to be in breach of peace nor associated with extreme religious views or terrorism.

“The peaceful way you have conducted all your celebrations without disturbance to the public; this is commendable.”

The President, who appreciated the prayers from congregations such as the Tijjaniyyah, however, urged all religious groups to continue to preach peace, especially among the youths.

In his response, Muhammadul-Kabir, who was accompanied by other clerics from several African countries, commended the President for nurturing peaceful coexistence among all religious adherents in the country.

He said they were in Nigeria to observe the Maulud celebration of the birthday of the Holy Prophet Muhammad which took place peacefully in Bauchi State.

President Buhari hosted the clerics the same day he met with Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano, at the Presidential Villa.

Briefing State House correspondents after the meeting, Governor Obiano said he was at the Villa to pay the President a ‘thank you’ visit, following his victory in the Anambra governorship election which held on November 18.