A former lawmaker who represented Kogi West Senatorial District, Dino Melaye, has strongly criticized federal and state governments for spending billions of naira annually on religious activities, including marriages and pilgrimages, at the expense of critical infrastructure.

Melaye made the remarks during a recent appearance on the KAA Truths podcast, where he heavily faulted administrators at all levels of government for their misplaced priorities. He argued that the continuous allocation of massive public funds to religious events has severely hindered the country`s development.

According to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, religion is strictly a personal matter that should not involve state funding. He expressed deep concern that public resources are being diverted into private spiritual affairs while vital sectors suffer.

The former senator questioned the current trajectory of governance in Nigeria, stating that it is entirely wrong for the government to take over responsibilities that traditionally belong to religious institutions and wealthy individuals. He challenged the nation’s billionaires and churches to step up and handle such sponsorships.

Melaye further argued that there is no scriptural mandate making holy pilgrimages a prerequisite for spiritual salvation. He noted that neither the Quran nor the Bible states that missing a pilgrimage to Mecca or Israel will prevent a believer from making heaven.

The outspoken politician lamented the deplorable state of Nigeria`s social amenities, emphasizing that hundreds of billions of naira wasted annually on trips to Jerusalem and Mecca should be aggressively redirected into fixed assets. He stressed that fixing broken road networks and equipping failing hospitals must take precedence.

In his final remarks, Melaye urged the government to completely redefine its core functions and exit the business of religion. He maintained that until the country learns to prioritize its spending toward national development, essential infrastructure will continue to decay.