The Chief Imam of Nasara Cinema Juma’at Mosque in Lokoja, Kashim Imam, has called on President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to focus on improving the welfare of Nigerians amid the nation’s current economic difficulties.
Delivering a Juma’at sermon on Friday, Imam addressed the pressing issues faced by many Nigerians, emphasizing the severity of the economic situation. He highlighted how the financial strain has left numerous citizens struggling to meet basic needs, with many facing hunger, unemployment, and homelessness.
“The economic hardship has left many Nigerians unable to afford basic necessities, with millions going to bed hungry and many more facing unemployment and homelessness,” Imam lamented.
Imam criticized what he sees as the misuse of public funds, noting that the excessive spending by government officials on items such as SUVs and lavish foreign trips is a source of great concern.
“The extravagant spending of scarce resources by the executive, legislature, and judiciary on items like SUVs for government officials and lavish foreign trips is deeply troubling and unacceptable,” he said.
He urged President Tinubu to actively engage with political stakeholders to explore and implement effective solutions to these economic challenges. Imam also called for lawmakers to be attentive to the needs of their constituents, especially during times of economic distress, and for state governors to adopt people-centered policies to support their citizens.
“I urge the president to consider implementing a living wage for civil servants, pensioners, and unemployed individuals across our nation. Leaders must uphold justice and be accountable to the people,” Imam added.
Additionally, Imam encouraged voters to make informed choices in elections, emphasizing the importance of electing leaders who will prioritize the welfare and interests of the masses.
This appeal comes as Nigeria grapples with significant economic issues, including high inflation rates, a rising cost of living, and widespread poverty.
