Popular Islamic cleric, Sheikh Abubakar Issa, has urged Nigerians to use their votes to flush out elective office holders who are self-centered in 2027.

Mr Issa, popularly called Baba Ote, gave the advice during the Sesi Whingan Annual Ramadan lecture on Friday in Badagry.

The Ramadan lecture was titled:

“Governance and Continuity: Islamic Perspective.”

The cleric said that some politicians, when called to lead the people, choose to keep the benefits of democracy for their families instead of sharing them with the public.

“Politicians that didn’t recognise the voters that helped them during the election should be voted out in 2027.

“But any political office holders that did well in his first tenure should be given another opportunity again,” he said.

The cleric said Nigerians should reject vote buying during the election period so that politicians serve them better.

Mr Issa said they had heard of the activities of Sesi Whingan, the lawmaker representing Badagry Federal Constituency in the lower chamber in Ilorin, Kwara State.

“We have come here today because we heard your lawmaker is doing great work for you, and the gathering and responses from Badagry people have showed it,” he said.

In his remarks, Mr Whingan urged Nigerians to use this fasting period to pray for the development of the country.

The lawmaker urged them to extend their prayers to their leaders, especially President Bola Tinubu, speakers of the National Assembly, governors, and other political leaders.

Mr Whingan said any politician who failed to serve his people should not be given a second chance in 2027.

“Service to the people who elected you — delivery should be the keyword.

“When you are elected, it is to serve the people and not your family members only.

“For the past two and a half years, I have channeled my strength in serving my people in all ramifications,” he said.

Abdulhakeem Akewusola, the chief imam of Badagry Division, led the prayers session for Nigeria, political leaders, Mr Whingan, and his families.

(NAN)