Kaduna-based religious leader Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has called on Islamic scholars throughout Nigeria to get involved in the political process. He suggested that these individuals should pursue both elected and appointed governmental offices.
During an interview with the BBC Hausa Service, Gumi stated that there is no restriction within Islamic teachings that bars scholars from political participation. He believes their involvement would foster a higher standard of ethics, transparency, and effective governance in the country.
The cleric emphasized that the duties of the Ulama should reach further than traditional religious instruction. By applying their knowledge of faith and their commitment to divine accountability, he argued that they could offer a form of leadership that is deeply principled and attentive to the needs of the citizenry.
Gumi challenged the notion that political spheres should be reserved only for career politicians. He asserted that scholars possess the necessary moral framework to serve the public effectively and urged them to step forward to help guide societal progress.
