Benin Chief Imam economic hardship warning: Sheikh Enabulele says insecurity and poverty reflect a vote of no confidence in Nigeria’s ruling class

The Chief Imam of Benin, Sheikh AbdulFatai Enabulele, has said that the prevailing economic hardship, insecurity and political crisis in Nigeria amount to a vote of no confidence in the country’s ruling political class.

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Sheikh Enabulele made the remarks while speaking with journalists shortly after the Eid-el-Kabir prayers at the Ikpoba Slope Eid Ground in Benin City on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.

The cleric urged governments at all levels to urgently implement policies capable of improving the living conditions of ordinary citizens, stressing that Nigerians are currently facing severe hardship.

He linked rising social vices, including internet fraud and kidnapping, to poverty, unemployment and what he described as failures in governance.

“You can see what is happening. They are kidnapping our children, who are the leaders of tomorrow. So what do you expect if the children are not safe?” he said.

Sheikh Enabulele described the situation as a reflection of poor leadership, adding that governance failures have contributed significantly to growing insecurity across the country.

He warned that when leadership fails to uphold justice and accountability, citizens are more likely to adopt similar behaviours, worsening societal decay.

The Chief Imam also criticised the conduct of political party primaries in the country, lamenting that electoral processes continue to be marred by conflict despite decades of democratic practice.

He said credible and transparent leadership would encourage citizens to act responsibly and contribute positively to national development.

According to him, many parents are now struggling to provide for their families due to worsening economic conditions, a situation he said is fuelling frustration among young people.

Sheikh Enabulele urged political leaders to prioritise policies that improve livelihoods and restore public confidence in governance.

He further called for reflection and moral discipline among leaders and citizens, urging Nigerians to emulate the values of sacrifice and obedience exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.

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The cleric concluded with a prayer for national transformation, expressing hope for improved governance and better living conditions for citizens.