An Islamic preacher and lecturer, Imam Abdazeez Megida, has criticised the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe , over claims that electricity supply has improved since he assumed office, saying the minister should not be applauded for what he described as an unsatisfactory situation in the power sector.
Megida, who spoke during his Friday sermon at Megida Central Mosque, Oke-Oro area of Saki, Oyo State, on Friday, said it was “disgusting” to hear claims of improvement in the nation’s electricity supply when many Nigerians were still grappling with inadequate power supply and economic hardship.
The cleric also used Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary to question whether the country had learnt sufficient lessons from its years of independence, particularly in the areas of leadership, management of resources and social welfare.
He argued that the country’s abundant human and natural resources had not been adequately harnessed to improve the living conditions of the citizens.
According to him, the persistent hardship being experienced by Nigerians should compel leaders and other stakeholders to reflect on the country’s development trajectory and the quality of governance.
Quoting extensively from the Qur’an during the sermon, Megida emphasised the importance of gratitude, justice, accountability and responsible stewardship.
He said the Qur’anic injunctions on the protection of orphans and the vulnerable should serve as a reminder to leaders that public resources must be administered with fairness and concern for the poor and needy.
The cleric questioned the availability of effective productive, educational, marketing and financial systems capable of improving the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
He also raised questions about justice, saying: “Where is justice? Where is the wealth that was stolen? Where is the right of the oppressed? Where is the pension?”
He further urged Nigerian leaders, scholars, intellectuals and other influential figures to reflect on the condition of the country and their responsibilities towards its development.
He said the experience of other African countries and nations across the world should provide lessons for Nigeria, stressing that independence should translate into tangible improvements in the lives of citizens.
The preacher maintained that the celebration of independence should go beyond ceremonies and patriotic rhetoric, urging leaders to demonstrate the benefits of freedom through good governance, justice, economic opportunities and responsible management of national resources.