Tinubu leads delegation on Umrah, prays for 2027 elections and national unity
President Bola Tinubu, accompanied by BUA chairperson Abdulsamad Rabiu, Kaduna Governor Uba Sani, Borno Governor Babagana Zulum, and former Zamfara Governor Abdul'aziz Yari, performed Umrah in Saudi Arabia Thursday, offering prayers for Nigeria's peace, unity, and the 2027 general elections.
Rabiu emphasized the spiritual significance at a critical political juncture, praying for "lasting peace, national unity, and free, fair, successful elections." Governor Sani highlighted insecurity challenges in Kaduna and other states, noting security agencies' efforts but stressing that "connivance—not necessarily from politicians, but even among ordinary members of the public" hampers progress. He called for divine intervention to change hearts and foster patriotism. Governor Zulum echoed the plea for "lasting peace and tranquillity" ahead of elections.
Presidential aide Tunde Rahman revealed Tinubu has maintained annual spiritual rejuvenation since 2016, never missing a year of seeking divine guidance for the nation. Yari described Tinubu's leadership as prayer-grounded, noting the president views leadership as God's selection.
The trip follows Tinubu's month-long Europe visit and the APC presidential campaign flag-off in Kaduda, where he pledged to consolidate economic recovery and infrastructure development. The Presidency characterizes the Saudi visit as a personal spiritual journey for divine guidance and national progress.
As 2027 campaigning begins in earnest, will spiritual framing of political legitimacy resonate with voters, or will they demand measurable security and economic outcomes alongside prayers?