Prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi, has defended the participation of religious scholars in politics, saying clerics who actively engage in governance are making a greater contribution than those who only pray for political leaders.
Gumi made the remarks on Monday while commenting on the growing debate over whether Islamic scholars should remain focused on religious preaching or take part in partisan politics.
The discussion has intensified following the political ambitions of several respected clerics, including former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Sheikh Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, who is now the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Gombe State. Another Islamic scholar, Sheikh Bashir Ahmad Sani, also declared his intention earlier this year to contest the Sokoto State governorship election in 2027.
The issue has divided opinion among many Muslims, particularly in northern Nigeria. Critics argue that politics is often divisive and could expose religious leaders to insults, political attacks, and damage to their moral authority. They believe clerics should instead provide spiritual guidance and hold leaders accountable from outside government.
Supporters, however, maintain that scholars with integrity, knowledge, and leadership qualities should not shy away from public office, arguing that meaningful reforms require capable individuals to participate directly in governance.
Reacting to the debate in a Facebook post, Gumi said there is nothing wrong with Islamic scholars participating in politics.
According to him, clerics who accept the challenges of political leadership contribute more to society than those who remain on the sidelines offering prayers for politicians.
> "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," Gumi wrote.
His comments are expected to further fuel discussions on the role of religious leaders in Nigeria's political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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