Prominent Islamic Scholar Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi has said that religious clerics who actively participate in politics and contest elections are preferable to those who remain on the sidelines, praying for politicians from the comfort of their homes.
Gumi made the remark while contributing to the ongoing debate over whether Islamic scholars should engage directly in partisan politics or restrict themselves to religious preaching and spiritual guidance.
The issue has generated widespread discussion following the increasing involvement of some clerics in politics, a development that continues to divide opinion among Muslims, particularly in northern Nigeria.
Among the notable Islamic scholars who have ventured into politics are the former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Sheikh Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, and Sokoto-based cleric Sheikh Bashir Ahmad Sani. In February 2026, Sani declared his intention to contest the Sokoto State governorship election during the 2027 general elections.
Several other respected clerics have also held, or continue to hold, political offices in different parts of the country.
Opponents of clerics entering politics argue that the political arena is too divisive and morally compromised for religious leaders. They contend that scholars should remain independent so they can provide spiritual guidance, counsel leaders when necessary and hold those in authority accountable without being drawn into partisan interests.
Critics also maintain that active political participation exposes clerics to insults, political attacks, ridicule and defamation, potentially undermining the respect, credibility and moral authority they enjoy within society.
Supporters, however, believe meaningful national transformation cannot be achieved solely from outside government. They argue that if religious scholars possess the integrity, competence and leadership qualities required for public office, they should be encouraged to seek elective positions and contribute directly to governance rather than limiting themselves to sermons and prayers.
The debate has attracted renewed attention following the emergence of former Minister Pantami as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for Gombe State.
Reacting to the controversy in a post on his Facebook page on Monday, Gumi insisted that there was nothing inappropriate about religious scholars actively participating in politics.
According to him, clerics who choose to engage in politics and endure its challenges make a greater contribution than those who merely pray for political leaders from outside the system.
“A religious scholar who gets involved in politics and bears its rigours is better than one who sits on a prayer mat, offering prayers for politicians,” Gumi wrote.
