Nigerians performing the lesser Hajj in Mecca, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, have been advised to refrain from using vulgar language, cursing, and criticizing the nation’s leadership while offering prayers during the month of Ramadan.
Yusuf Dingyadi, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the APC National Chairman, made the appeal in a statement circulated to the press in Sokoto on Sunday.
Dingyadi, who is currently in Saudi Arabia performing the Ramadan lesser Hajj alongside other Muslims from across the globe, noted that those praying against Nigeria and its leadership are contributing to the continued crises bedeviling the nation, including insecurity and other political challenges.
He expressed sadness and dismay that some groups of Nigerians have been recorded on social media abusing and cursing certain political leaders or openly castigating them in front of the Holy Ka’abah, where strict decorum, respect, and fear of Almighty God are expected more than anywhere else in the world.
Dingyadi emphasized that those who travel to the Holy Land should do so for sacrifice, prayers, and seeking divine redemption, rather than displaying contempt, using abusive language, or casting aspersions on leaders due to challenges commonly associated with governance.
He urged Nigerians performing the pilgrimage or lesser Hajj to focus on fervent prayers for Nigeria to overcome its challenges, rather than engaging in negative prayers against the nation and its leaders.
According to him, this is particularly important as Muslims observe the last ten days of Ramadan with greater consciousness of the fear of Almighty God while seeking divine guidance and blessings.
Dingyadi also called on leaders not to become a burden to their people, but to remain committed to addressing the numerous challenges facing the country, particularly insecurity, poverty, and injustice.