Gumi: Clerics who join politics are better than those praying for politicians

Gumi: Clerics who join politics are better than those praying for politicians

Prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi, has defended the participation of religious scholars in politics, arguing that clerics who actively engage in the political process and accept its challenges are better positioned to contribute to society than those who remain outside and only pray for political leaders.

Gumi made the remarks amid growing debate over whether Islamic clerics should participate directly in partisan politics or focus exclusively on religious teachings, spiritual guidance and public advocacy.

The discussion has gained renewed attention following the political involvement of several respected Islamic scholars, particularly in northern Nigeria, where religious leaders play influential roles in community development, public discourse and social affairs.

The issue has become more prominent following the emergence of former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, as a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Gombe State ahead of the 2027 general election.

Pantami’s political ambition has generated mixed reactions, with supporters describing his participation as an opportunity for a religious scholar and public policy expert to contribute directly to governance. However, critics have raised concerns about the possible impact of partisan politics on the independence, public image and moral authority of religious leaders.

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While some religious scholars have previously held political appointments or served in government, the increasing interest of prominent clerics in elective offices has renewed debate over the appropriate role of religious leaders in Nigeria’s political system.

Those opposed to clerics participating in partisan politics argue that the political environment can be highly divisive and may expose religious leaders to personal attacks, public criticism, political rivalry and allegations that could affect the respect they command among their followers.

They believe clerics may be more effective when they remain independent of political parties and use their platforms to provide spiritual guidance, promote ethical leadership, advise public officials and hold governments accountable.

Supporters, however, argue that religious scholars should not remain on the sidelines while the country continues to face challenges related to governance, insecurity, economic hardship and public service delivery.

They maintain that scholars who possess leadership experience, professional competence, integrity and a clear vision for public service should be free to seek elective offices and participate directly in efforts to improve governance.

According to this view, meaningful political change may require responsible citizens, including religious leaders, to move beyond public criticism and take part in the decision-making process.

Weighing in on the debate in a Facebook post, Gumi said there was nothing wrong with religious scholars joining politics and participating actively in governance.

He argued that clerics who enter politics and endure its demands are making a more direct contribution than those who remain outside the political system and only offer prayers for elected officials.

“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.

Gumi’s comments reflect the view that religious scholars should be prepared to participate in practical efforts aimed at improving leadership and governance rather than limiting their involvement to sermons, prayers and public commentary.

The scholar’s position has added a fresh dimension to the ongoing conversation about the relationship between religion and politics in Nigeria, especially as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election continue to gather momentum.

The debate is expected to remain active as more religious leaders consider political appointments or elective offices and as Nigerians continue to assess the role of faith-based leadership in public governance.

While supporters believe clerics can bring moral values, discipline and accountability into government, critics insist that religious leaders must carefully protect their independence and avoid allowing political affiliations to divide their communities.

Ultimately, the debate raises broader questions about whether direct political participation would enable religious scholars to contribute more effectively to governance or expose them to political pressures that could affect their religious responsibilities and public influence.

Gumi: Clerics who join politics are better than those praying for politicians