Tinubu's Aide Dismisses Claims Mecca Trip Was for 2027 Political Gains

Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Foreign Affairs and Protocol, Ademola Oshodi, has dismissed claims that the President travelled to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, to gain political support from northern Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Oshodi made the clarification during an interview on Channels Television's Politics Today on Monday, insisting that the visit was strictly religious because Tinubu is a Muslim.

Aide Says Umrah Was Not a Political Trip

The presidential aide argued that Tinubu's presence in Mecca should not be interpreted as a political move. He cited the presence of Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, an opposition politician who also travelled to the holy city as a Muslim.

Oshodi also advised other presidential candidates preparing for the 2027 elections to seek God's favour.

Tinubu Seeks Prayers for Nigeria

According to the report, Tinubu arrived in Saudi Arabia on October 29 and performed the religious rites associated with Umrah, seeking Allah's guidance and blessings for Nigeria and its people.

After completing the rites, the President said he felt fulfilled and expressed confidence that God had granted him the wisdom to continue serving Nigerians.

Oshodi acknowledged the economic difficulties facing Nigerians but maintained that the Tinubu administration was working to improve the situation.

Channels Television