Nigeria at 65: Cleric Says Citizens Deserve More Than Peanuts from Politicians
As Nigeria marked its 65th anniversary, a cleric has urged political leaders to go beyond token gestures and deliver real dividends of democracy to the people.
Speaking during the celebrations, Prophet Sam Olu Alo of the Christ Apostolic Church (Adamimogo, Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain Worldwide) criticized politicians for offering Nigerians “peanuts” in place of meaningful governance.
He said the time had come for leaders to stop handing out temporary reliefs or symbolic gifts while failing to address the root causes of poverty, insecurity, and underdevelopment.
“Nigerians deserve better than peanuts from politicians. Our people need visionary leadership that provides jobs, quality education, healthcare, and security — not just crumbs thrown at them during elections or hard times,” the cleric declared.
He further appealed to President Bola Tinubu and other leaders to appoint competent technocrats and patriotic individuals, rather than political loyalists, into key positions. According to him, the practice of rewarding “political jobbers” with government appointments only weakens governance and denies the nation the expertise it urgently needs.
Prophet Olu Alo stressed that as Nigeria reflects on 65 years of independence, the priority should be on building a nation where citizens can truly feel the impact of governance.
He urged leaders to pursue policies that uplift the masses, reduce hardship, and secure the country’s future, instead of relying on superficial interventions.
His remarks add to the growing voices calling for deeper reforms and more responsible leadership as the nation navigates economic challenges and social discontent.
