1,117 Katsina clerics endorse Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid
No fewer than 1,117 Islamic clerics from the Izala and Tijjaniyya groups in Katsina State have endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The clerics, comprising Islamic scholars, imams, male and female preachers, and teachers, declared their support on Sunday at a gathering organised by Ibrahim Masari, the presidential adviser on political matters.
Masari conveyed Tinubu’s appreciation to the clerics, assuring them that the President and his administration would not betray the confidence reposed in them by Katsina residents.
He urged the religious leaders to mobilise their followers to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) at all levels ahead of the 2027 elections.
Masari also emphasised the importance of trust, integrity and accountability in leadership, urging Islamic scholars to uphold truthfulness and responsible conduct in their religious and public engagements.
Similarly, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Muttaqa Rabe-Darma, urged the clerics to use their influence in their communities to explain the administration’s policies and political agenda.
Rabe-Darma described Islamic scholars as influential figures whose sermons and regular interactions with worshippers could shape public understanding of political issues and leadership choices.
He noted that politicians across party lines frequently sought the blessings and support of religious leaders, underscoring their influence in society.
The minister encouraged the clerics to use their platforms, particularly Friday sermons and community engagements, to explain their support for Tinubu’s second-term bid.
He said religious leaders had an important role in political mobilisation because many communities trusted their guidance on religious, social and public affairs.
In his remarks, Sheikh Aminu Usman, also known as Abu Ammar, the immediate past Hisbah commander in the state, urged Islamic scholars not to remain silent on political matters.
He said their responsibilities extended beyond religious activities to include enlightening the public on leadership and governance.
Usman cited Islamic teachings on the relationship between religious scholarship and leadership, urging clerics to educate their followers about political candidates.
He encouraged citizens to assess leaders based on their records and performance, stressing the need for religious leaders to speak truthfully about political developments.
Usman said clerics should help citizens make informed choices as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gathered momentum.
(NAN)
