Over 1,000 Islamic Clerics Oppose Tinubu’s 2027 Re-election Bid

More than 1,000 Islamic clerics have called on President Bola Tinubu not to seek re-election in the 2027 general elections, citing worsening economic hardship and insecurity across Nigeria.

The clerics made the call in a communique issued after a meeting held in Kano to assess the state of the nation under the Tinubu administration and discuss the 2027 elections.

The meeting, organised under the theme “An Assessment of the State of the Nation under President Tinubu and the 2027 General Elections,” brought together members of Ko Da Naka… For the Struggle to Promote Good Governance and Community Development and the AFAQ Educational Foundation.

According to the clerics, the current economic situation has placed significant pressure on ordinary Nigerians, while insecurity continues to threaten lives and livelihoods.

Clerics criticise Tinubu’s economic policies

The group expressed concern over several economic reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, floating of the naira, increase in electricity tariffs and ongoing tax reforms.

They argued that the policies, rather than improving living conditions for Nigerians, have contributed to rising costs and increased hardship.

The clerics also criticised what they described as the government’s focus on increasing revenue while citizens struggle with unemployment and the rising cost of living.

“It is unfortunate that the government has continued to insist on pursuing these policies, which are increasing hardship among the people, rather than reviewing and correcting them,” the communique stated.

They maintained that economic reforms should be reviewed where necessary to reduce the burden on citizens and address the deteriorating standard of living.

Group threatens to oppose Tinubu in 2027

The clerics said participants at the conference unanimously agreed that re-electing the Tinubu administration in 2027 would be inappropriate if the government fails to change what they described as harmful economic policies.

“Consequently, participants at the conference unanimously agreed that it would be inappropriate to re-elect this government in the forthcoming 2027 general elections if it does not change its harmful economic policies,” they said.

The position adds another voice to the growing political debate ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Development comes amid competing endorsements

The clerics’ position comes shortly after two prominent Islamic groups, the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa’ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) and the Qadiriyya Sufi sect, reportedly endorsed President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for another term.

The endorsements followed a visit by Senator Abdulaziz Yari, Director General of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council, to the groups.

The contrasting positions highlight the differing views emerging within religious and political circles as Nigeria moves towards the 2027 elections.

For now, the Kano clerics are calling for a change in direction, particularly on economic policies and governance, before Nigerians return to the polls.