The Founder and Spiritual Head of Shafaudeen-in-Islam Worldwide, Prof. Sabit Ariyo Olagoke (JP), has condemned the recent calls for salary increments for political office holders, describing it as “a gross act of insensitivity.”
In a statement issued by his aide on Media and Publicity, Mr. Bode Akinbode, Prof. Olagoke
noted that politicians already earn enormous allowances and enjoy untold privileges, yet they clamour for more in the face of hunger, poverty, and despair among citizens.
“How do you justify politicians earning millions every month while university lecturers, who shape the future of our children, continue to receive meagre pay? This disparity is dangerous, unjust, and totally unacceptable.”
The Islamic cleric expressed deep concern over the growing tensions in Nigeria, which he said “require rapid, honest, and practical attention from government at all levels.”
He emphasised that the state of the economy, politics, health, and security “is fast eroding people’s trust in leadership” and warned that unless urgent interventions are made, “the very fabric of the nation will continue to weaken.”
Prof.Olagoke lamented the poor state of the health sector and called for urgent reforms.
According to him, “Our hospitals are collapsing, medical professionals are leaving in droves, and ordinary Nigerians cannot afford treatment. Government must increase funding, equip public health facilities, and give priority to the welfare of doctors and nurses if we are to prevent needless suffering and deaths.”
On insecurity, Prof. Olagoke warned that the situation must not be trivialised, adding that, “Banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes have become too rampant. These problems scare away investments, worsen unemployment, and deepen poverty.”
“Government must show sincerity and political will to confront insecurity headlong. Security agencies must invest more in intelligence gathering while leaders at the grassroots must work with citizens to secure their communities.”
Turning to the 2027 general elections, he counselled both leaders and the electorate to approach the polls with responsibility.
“Leadership is not a do-or-die affair. Politicians must remember it is a call to serve, not an avenue to loot. Nigerians must reject vote-buying and elect credible leaders with vision, integrity, and compassion for the people,” Prof. Olagoke advised.
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