President Tinubu’s Umrah Declaration:
Truth of the Matter
By Adim Williams
C.
November 9, 2026.
Recently, President, Bola Tinubu performed ‘Umrah’ (lesser hajj) in Saudi Arabia in company of some governors and a retinue of other government officials. At the end, the president granted an interview where he said, inter alia, “Well, I asked for wisdom and resilience to continue to serve the people. I know that has been granted… Prior to the 2023 election, I did the same thing. I asked Allah to bless my Umrah then. He did, and I promised that I would come back to thank Him…”. Let us examine the president’s speech dispassionately.
Over the years, Nigerians have become touchy and overly protective of their religious creeds to the detriment of collective good and unfortunately, Nigerian politicians have exploited this weakness to the fullest for personal gains. A pilgrimage that was planned and timed for political gains is now being smartly interpreted to mean divine mandate to rule over us. But the truth is that God has given us the free will to elect whoever we choose, into office and live with the consequences of our choices. We cannot be deceived any longer with religious platitudes.
Nigeria is ranked second most prayerful country on earth, behind Afghanistan. But as we can all confess, this overly ‘prayerful’ tag does not reflect in our people’s behaviour, orientation and attitude. Our country still ranks very high on corruption index. Per capita income is very low while life expectancy is the lowest. Yet, our politicians constantly and conveniently pander to religion and tribe to win elections only to continue with their ultra-selfish agenda once they get into office. Nigerians are now wiser. Enough of the deceit! Hajj or no Hajj, Tinubu Must Go. A new Nigeria is POssible.
Adim Williams writes for PO Express Media, POEM.