“Even In Jerusalem, There’s An Ashawo Joint Near Mount Sinai”- Dino Melaye

Forum 4 days ago

“Even In Jerusalem, There’s An Ashawo Joint Near Mount Sinai”- Dino Melaye

Former Kogi State senator and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Dino Melaye, has criticised the use of public funds to finance religious activities, saying government resources should be channelled towards more pressing areas of national development.

Melaye questioned the rationale behind the government spending billions of naira on religious pilgrimages to Mecca and Jerusalem when churches, mosques and wealthy individuals could assist those who wish to embark on such journeys.

According to him, pilgrimage should not be regarded as a government responsibility, noting that neither Christianity nor Islam makes travelling to holy sites a requirement for attaining heaven.

He argued that the government should instead prioritise critical sectors such as infrastructure and healthcare, particularly given the condition of roads and hospitals across the country.

He said, “Why will government be spending billions of naira that is supposed to be meant for development? Our roads, you know their state in this country. Our hospitals, you know their state in this country. We cannot prioritise our spending.”

The former senator also questioned whether going on pilgrimage necessarily translates into a change in people’s behaviour, pointing to the presence of immoral activities even in places associated with religious significance.

“Even Jerusalem that you are going to, just close to Mount Sinai where you will go to, there’s an ashawo joint by the edge there,” he said.

Melaye, however, clarified that his position was not an attack on religion, stressing that he considers himself a spiritual person and respects the personal nature of people’s relationship with God.

“I am a spiritual person, but my spirituality and celestial relationship with God is personal,” he said.

He further argued that public funds should be used primarily for the benefit and development of citizens rather than religious activities, describing religion as an individual matter.

Melaye also referenced his experience attending United Nations events, including the United Nations General Assembly, noting that such gatherings could take place without formal opening or closing prayers.

“Religion is personal. It’s individualistic,” Melaye said, adding that every individual would ultimately be responsible for their relationship with God.

He called for a review of the government’s spending priorities, urging authorities to focus on strengthening the economy and addressing the country’s developmental challenges.

“We need to reprioritise. We need to build our economy,” he said.