The Chief Imam of Benin, Sheikh AbdulFatai Enabulele, has declared that the current economic difficulties, widespread insecurity, and political turmoil facing Nigeria represent a clear vote of no confidence in the country’s political leadership. He made this observation during an interview following the Eid-el-Kabir prayers at the Ikpoba Slope Eid Ground in Benin City.
He called on authorities at every tier to implement policies and initiatives that would enhance the standard of living for ordinary citizens, emphasizing that many Nigerians are enduring severe hardship. The cleric also connected the rise in cybercrime and other societal ills among the youth to poverty, joblessness, and a lack of effective governance.
According to Enabulele, the abduction of children, who are the future leaders, is a direct consequence of governance failures. He argued that when citizens see their leaders engaging in lawlessness, they are likely to follow suit. He stressed the importance of leaders conducting themselves responsibly and avoiding actions that might mislead the public.
The Imam criticized the ongoing primary elections across political parties, lamenting that after more than two decades of democracy, politicians still struggle to conduct free and fair elections without conflict. He urged political leaders to emulate the sacrifice and dedication of Prophet Ibrahim for the nation’s improvement.
Enabulele pointed out that since 1999, Nigerians have not experienced the true benefits of democracy, with widespread lamentation and economic hardship preventing parents from properly caring for and feeding their children. He noted that pragmatic and progressive policies would encourage citizens to be law-abiding, but lawless leadership breeds lawlessness among the people.
He concluded by praying for divine guidance for both leaders and followers, urging that the universal message of Prophet Ibrahim be embraced by all for a better life. He warned that the current desperate situation suggests that God may have forsaken the nation.