Nigerian singer Timaya has urged Nigerians to vote wisely, warning that their decisions at the polls could have significant consequences for the country’s future.
The singer made the remarks during a recent interview on Wazobia FM, where he encouraged Nigerians not to allow their immediate personal needs to determine how they vote.
According to Timaya, decisions made on election day could affect the country for years beyond the immediate benefits voters may receive.
“Nobody is advising anybody. If what you want to eat today is what you are looking for to put in your pocket, that is your business. It is not just one day; it is another four years of hardship. If you know what is good, you have to vote right,” he said.
Timaya Criticises Politicians Based Abroad
Timaya also questioned the commitment of politicians who, according to him, live abroad while maintaining political or professional interests in Nigeria.
Reflecting on his experiences when travelling outside the country, the singer said he observes differences between Nigeria and other countries and questioned whether politicians who spend significant time abroad can fully understand the challenges faced by Nigerians.
“When I travel abroad, I see what is going on there. Do you understand? And these people themselves, they don’t even stay in Nigeria. They live abroad. They just work in Nigeria, these politicians, but they are based abroad because that’s where their families are. So how do you expect them to think right? They are selfish, all of them. Very selfish,” he said.
Timaya further expressed concern over what Nigerians should expect from political leaders, noting that both incoming politicians and those already in office often promise to deliver better governance.
Singer Calls for Leaders to Put Nigerians First
The singer also appealed for the country’s leadership to prioritise the welfare of Nigerians rather than individual or family interests.
Timaya said Nigerians are increasingly relying on God amid the challenges facing the country and prayed against anyone whose actions could worsen the situation.
“You see the way God is trying to make everything possible now? We depend on God. If there is anybody who will make this country cry again, God should just take that person,” he said.
He stressed that the challenges facing the country affect millions of people and should therefore be treated as a collective concern.
“Because the cry of the country right now is bigger than just one person. May God k+ll that person. Your selfish interest cannot be bigger than, or your family’s selfish interest cannot be bigger than, millions of people in the country. No, man. At this point, it is bad,” he added.
Timaya’s comments come amid continued public discussions in Nigeria about voting, political leadership, economic hardship and the responsibilities of elected officials. His remarks have added his voice to calls for Nigerians to consider the broader consequences of their choices at the polls.