Clerics Now Control the Political Space, Politicians Watching – Lamido

Former Jigawa State governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, has raised concerns about the increasing influence of religious leaders in Nigeria’s political landscape, Daily Trust reports.  

In a viral video recorded during a condolence visit to Sheikh Yusuf Sambo Rigachikun in Kaduna, following the loss of his eldest son, Lamido lamented that clerics have become central to political processes, directing voters on whom to support.

“Despite the blessings of being religious leaders, clerics are now struggling for power. Clerics are supposed to be guardians to politicians, but since they want power, we politicians have decided to step aside and watch. We are waiting for them to tell us who to vote for based on their wishes. For equity and justice, everyone ought to maintain their status in society,” Lamido stated.

The former Foreign Affairs Minister expressed concern over the growing involvement of religious leaders in political campaigns, warning that the overlap between religion and politics could exacerbate Nigeria’s political instability.

Lamido also drew parallels between the internal crises within political parties and divisions among religious sects, emphasizing that unity is essential for a stable political future.

Observers note that religious leaders have historically played a role in mobilizing voters. However, the 2023 general election marked a shift, with mosques and churches openly endorsing candidates.

Many Islamic sermons (khutbas) and church services became platforms for political campaigns, with some clerics declaring divine mandates for specific candidates. However, many of these predictions failed to materialize.

A recent controversy further highlighted the intersection of religion and politics. A planned Qur’an convention, originally scheduled for February 22, 2025, in Abuja, was postponed indefinitely amid allegations from Islamic scholars that the event was politically motivated in preparation for the 2027 presidential election.

The convention was expected to draw 30,000 Qur’an memorisers, writers, reciters, and calligraphers.

The 2023 presidential election, which was nearly derailed by the controversial Muslim-Muslim ticket of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, also underscored the role of religious leaders.

Many clerics in northern Nigeria lent their support, assuring followers of the ticket’s blessings. Ethnic and regional sentiments in the South West further bolstered Tinubu’s victory.