Clerics should enter politics, not just pray for leaders — Gumi

Prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi, has thrown his weight behind the participation of religious scholars in partisan politics, arguing that clerics should take active roles in governance instead of remaining on the sidelines praying for political leaders.

Gumi made the remark in a post on his Facebook page on Monday while reacting to the growing debate over whether Islamic scholars should contest elective offices or limit themselves to preaching and spiritual guidance.

The discussion has intensified in recent months following the political ambitions of some respected clerics, including former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Sheikh Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, who recently emerged as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Gombe State ahead of the 2027 election.

Another Islamic scholar, Sheikh Bashir Ahmad Sani, had earlier declared his intention to contest the Sokoto State governorship in the forthcoming polls.

Commenting on the controversy, Gumi dismissed suggestions that clerics should avoid politics, insisting that direct participation in governance was more beneficial than offering prayers from a distance.

“A religious scholar who gets involved in politics and bears its rigours is better than one who sits on a prayer mat, offering prayers for politicians,” he wrote.

The respected cleric’s intervention adds to an ongoing conversation within the Muslim community, particularly in northern Nigeria, over the role of religious leaders in partisan politics.

Opponents argue that politics could expose clerics to attacks, controversy and partisan divisions capable of eroding the moral authority they enjoy among followers. They believe religious leaders should instead remain independent voices that counsel leaders and hold governments accountable.

Supporters, however, contend that scholars with integrity and leadership qualities should not shy away from public office, arguing that meaningful reforms require competent individuals to participate directly in governance rather than merely criticising from outside the political system.

Gumi’s comments are expected to further fuel the debate as political parties continue preparations for the 2027 general elections.