President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerian religious leaders to play a proactive role in influencing political leadership by discouraging the renewal of terms for underperforming leaders.
Addressing traditional rulers and religious figures during a Ramadan Iftar at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu stressed the importance of refraining from denigrating the nation in sermons.
Highlighting the sacrifice of fallen soldiers and the plight of their families, Tinubu underscored the responsibility of religious leaders in shaping public opinion positively.
He urged religious leaders to educate congregants and guide them towards constructive criticism of leadership, advising against condemning the nation.
Using a Yoruba proverb, the president accentuated the need to preserve and uplift the nation, even in the face of challenges.
In his words, “Yesterday in Abuja, I attended the burial of the 17 soldiers killed in action at Okuama, Delta State. I saw their pregnant wives and little kids.
“The love of the nation is in your hands. Pray for our country. Educate our children. All the members of our churches and mosques, the sermon we give to them is important, you don’t condemn your own nation.
“I’m a Yoruba man and as our fathers will say, ‘No matter how slippery the bottom of your child is, you must leave the beads there.’ Leave the beads there. This is your country; do not condemn it in sermons, do not abuse the nation. Leaderships are meant for changes.
“Yes, this leader is bad, fine. Wait until it’s his time to renew his mandate and say ‘No’. But don’t condemn your country. Don’t curse Nigeria. It’s a beautiful land. Land of prosperity.”
