Jigawa ADC Rejects Tinubu 2027 Endorsement by 500 Islamic Scholars

(ADC. Photo by Guardian Nigeria News)

The African Democratic Congress in Jigawa State has rejected the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's second term by around 500 Islamic scholars who met over the weekend, saying such action goes against Islamic teachings.

In a statement, the ADC said religious leaders should preserve their independence and moral authority rather than back political candidates.

The party faulted claims in the scholars' communiqué that the Tinubu administration started the Kano-Dutse and Kano-Maradi railway project, noting it was actually approved and awarded under former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2021.

The ADC challenged the federal government to name major projects the current administration has initiated and completed in Jigawa State.

The party also disputed claims of major security improvements, particularly in the North-West, pointing to recent kidnappings and terrorist attacks across Kaduna, Sokoto and Zamfara.

It cited an Al Jazeera report from August 24 showing what appeared to be hundreds of abducted people held by armed men in Niger State, calling it irresponsible to claim Nigeria's security problems are solved.

The ADC warned Islamic scholars and clerics against letting political influence, money or access to power compromise their independence and credibility.

It blamed the removal of petrol subsidies for driving up transportation, food and living costs, urging Nigerians to judge the government on security, economic welfare, jobs, infrastructure, transparency and accountability.

While the ADC said it respects individual clerics' political views, it stressed that their endorsements should not be framed as religious rulings or as speaking for Nigeria's entire Muslim community.