As Muslims across Nigeria mark the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, the Unified Nigeria Youth Forum (UNYF) has expressed concern over the rising economic hardship in the country.

While extending warm Sallah greetings to the Muslim faithful, praying for peace, unity, and prosperity for the nation, the forum cautioned political leaders against prioritising the 2027 general elections over the immediate needs of the people.

President of the forum, Comrade Toriah Olajide Filani, in a message on Thursday, felicitating with Muslims on the occasion of Sallah, urged Nigerians to reflect on the values of sacrifice, compassion, and community support that the festival represents.

Filani lamented the prevailing economic hardship, saying that many citizens are unable to celebrate this year’s Sallah with dignity due to worsening living conditions.

He said that the rising poverty and dependence on alms during such an important religious festival reflect the failure of governance at all levels, calling on Nigerian youths to rise and demand accountability from their leaders beyond election periods.

Filani warned that political leaders should prioritise governance over the 2027 elections.

He said that their primary focus should be addressing hunger, poverty, unemployment, health crises, insecurity, and the growing number of out-of-school children.

“It is disturbing that despite the doubling of FAAC allocations, the suffering of the people continues without relief. The government must explain why there is no visible improvement in citizens’ welfare.

“The least our leaders should be thinking about is how to retain power in the next election. Their energy should be channeled toward solving the problems that threaten our national stability and the dignity of our people,” he said.

The Forum reminded Nigerian youths that they make up over 70 percent of the voting population and have the power to demand good governance and transparency.

It urged them not to wait for campaigns to begin before asking the right questions.

“This is not the time for politics but for governance. Leaders must be held to account now, not later. Nigerian youths must take responsibility for their future by engaging constructively and consistently,” the group emphasized.

The forum also called on other youth organisations to unite in the effort to hold leaders accountable, regardless of religion or political affiliation, reminding public office holders that they will eventually account for their actions before God.

“Leadership should not be a means to enrich oneself. It is a sacred duty to serve humanity with sincerity and humility. We must build a culture of accountability and selfless service,” it said.