Sheikh Sani Yahaya has publicly voiced his unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, clarifying that the choice to vote for him in the 2023 elections was driven by faith rather than financial incentives. Speaking at a recent gathering, the Islamic cleric emphasized that the decision to support Tinubu was made in accordance with their belief in Allah and not due to any monetary inducement from the President or his campaign.
“We voted for Tinubu not because he gave us money, but because of Allah,” Sheikh Yahaya stated, underscoring the religious conviction behind the support for Tinubu’s candidacy. He asserted that the loyalty to the Muslim-Muslim ticket was rooted in faith and shared values, which guided their choice at the polls.
Sheikh Yahaya also took the opportunity to address the ongoing challenges facing the Tinubu administration, particularly the recent hike in fuel prices across Nigeria. He argued that these issues were not a result of the government’s policies but rather the actions of those who oppose the administration. According to him, “The enemies of his government are the ones creating the hike in fuel prices in Nigeria. They start with rumors and then move to actualize them.” He identified these adversaries as those opposed to the Muslim-Muslim ticket, suggesting a deliberate effort to undermine the government’s credibility and public support.
The cleric’s remarks come amid widespread economic hardship and public discontent following the increase in fuel prices, which has led to inflation and a higher cost of living for many Nigerians. He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant against those who, in his view, are working against the interests of the government and the people, creating instability and economic strain through deliberate misinformation and sabotage.
Sheikh Yahaya’s statements reflect a broader narrative among some supporters of the Tinubu administration who believe that the current economic challenges are being exacerbated by political opponents and detractors. His call for faith-based support for the government aims to rally the base around a shared sense of purpose and religious solidarity, particularly in the face of mounting public criticism and economic pressures.
The cleric’s comments are likely to spark further debate about the role of religious and political narratives in shaping public perception and policy support in Nigeria. As the nation navigates these challenging times, voices like Sheikh Yahaya’s will continue to play a significant role in influencing the discourse around governance, economic management, and national unity.
