Maulud: Prof Olagoke Urges FG To Ease Nigerians’ Economic Burden, Warns Politicians Against Religious Manipulation

The Founder and Spiritual Head of Shafaudeen-In-Islam Worldwide, Wakajaye, Ibadan, Professor Sabit Ariyo Olagoke, has urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to reduce the economic hardship facing Nigerians, saying the impact of government reforms must be felt by ordinary citizens.

Olagoke, in a Maulud message issued through his Media Aide, Bode Akinbode, felicitated Muslims in Nigeria and across the world on the occasion of the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW), urging them to use the celebration to reflect on his teachings and exemplary virtues.

He said the significance of Maulud should go beyond religious ceremonies, stressing that Muslims must demonstrate the Prophet’s virtues of peace, justice, compassion, honesty, tolerance and service to humanity in their daily lives.

The Islamic cleric, however, expressed concern over the rising cost of food, transportation, housing, healthcare and other essential commodities, calling on governments at all levels to adopt policies capable of improving the living conditions of citizens.

According to him, greater attention should be given to food security, employment generation, affordable healthcare, education, social protection, infrastructure and support for small and medium-sized businesses.

“Government must continue to listen to the cries and concerns of Nigerians. The people should not only hear about economic reforms; they must also feel the positive impact of those reforms in their homes, markets, workplaces and communities,” Olagoke said.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the cleric urged politicians and political parties to place the interest of Nigeria above personal ambitions, warning against inflammatory rhetoric, religious manipulation, ethnic mobilisation, vote buying, intimidation, electoral violence and misinformation.

“Politics must be about service and not a desperate struggle for power. Politicians seeking elective positions in 2027 should tell Nigerians what they intend to do differently and how they will achieve it,” he said.

Olagoke also cautioned politicians against dragging religion and sacred institutions into partisan political battles, while urging religious leaders to remain independent and courageous enough to speak truth to power.

He equally appealed to Nigerians to remain peaceful despite economic challenges and urged youths to reject criminality, drug abuse, internet fraud and political thuggery.

He called on Muslims to use the Maulud celebration to pray for Nigeria and its leaders, stressing that prayers must be accompanied by responsible citizenship, hard work, patriotism, honesty and obedience to the law.

He prayed for peace, stability and prosperity in the country, urging Nigerians to allow the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to guide their conduct and relationships.