Umrah: Sowore Describes Tinubu, Governors As ‘Godless People’

Presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has criticised President Bola Tinubu and five governors over their trip to Saudi Arabia for the lesser Hajj, describing Nigerian leaders as “godless people” for seeking God abroad while the country grapples with numerous challenges.

Sowore, in a post on his X handle, accused Nigerian leaders of abandoning the country to attend religious activities in a foreign nation they should emulate in terms of development.

He described the leaders as “never-do-well” and questioned their decision to travel abroad for religious purposes while Nigeria continues to experience decay.

“Nigerian never-do-well leaders are the only human species in the world who will abandon their own country and congregate in another country, claiming to be searching for God. I mean, these Nigerian leaders are godless people!” he wrote.

“Imagine Tinubu @officialabat and five governors leaving Nigeria to attend a religious event in a country developed by their peers, while their own country remains in a state of decay.

“What a shameless bunch!” he added.

The former presidential candidate also alleged that Tinubu’s trip was a cover for medical treatment, although he did not provide evidence to substantiate the claim.

“Even though we know the entire trip is a cover for Tinubu @officialabat to receive medical treatment,” Sowore added.

LEADERSHIP reports that Tinubu’s journey to Saudi Arabia for the lesser Hajj has generated political reactions, with former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar demanding daily updates on the President’s activities in the Holy Land.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde also questioned the necessity of the trip, arguing that prayers could be offered and answered in Nigeria.

Tinubu departed Abuja on Thursday, October 29, 2026, for Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to perform Umrah, an Islamic pilgrimage commonly referred to as the lesser Hajj.

The Presidency announced the trip a day before his departure, stating that the President would use the opportunity to pray for Nigeria.