Tinubu says Allah gives, takes power after historic Ka'abah visit
President Tinubu declared Allah the ultimate giver and taker of political power Monday after performing Umrah and praying inside the Holy Ka'abah in Makkah — a rare honor granted by Saudi King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Speaking through aide Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said he prayed for wisdom and resilience to serve Nigerians, adding he believes that prayer was granted.
"Power belongs to Almighty Allah," Tinubu stated. "If I give you, use it well. If you don't use it in accordance with my dictates, I can take it from you and give it to another person." The delegation included AGF Lateef Fagbemi, Health Minister Ali Pate, governors from six northern states, and business leaders Abdulsamad Rabiu and Wale Tinubu.
On the economy, Tinubu claimed Nigeria has "come out of the dark tunnel" with a "solid foundation," while urging leaders to invest in youth: "If we don't invest in their future, how do we want to be remembered as leaders 50 years from now?"
The remarks frame Tinubu's leadership as divinely guided amid economic reforms. With inflation still biting and 2027 elections approaching, the religious framing of authority matters.
What does it mean when a president says his mandate comes with divine conditions — and claims the economy has turned a corner while many Nigerians still feel the squeeze?