The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs has urged politicians and other political actors to put Nigeria’s interests above partisan ambitions and approach leadership with fear of God.
The NSCIA Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, made the call on Wednesday at a special National Prayer held at the National Mosque, Abuja, ahead of the council’s General Assembly.
Oloyede said political leaders must recognise that their spiritual and civic responsibilities to the nation could not be separated.
He also dismissed suggestions that the prayer had political undertones, stressing that the National Mosque remained non-partisan.
According to him, Muslims belong to different political parties and the prayer was organised for the nation’s peace, stability and leaders.
“All those who are contesting and all our leaders, Muslims cut across all political parties. What we are doing is praying for our country and praying for our leaders,” Oloyede said.
He urged political actors to approach governance with patriotism and a sense of divine accountability rather than personal interests.
The NSCIA scribe also highlighted Nigeria’s linguistic and cultural diversity, noting that the prayer was conducted in Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, English and Arabic.
He said the country’s differences in language and culture should be seen as a source of strength rather than exploited to create division.
The two-day spiritual exercise precedes the General Assembly, where Islamic leaders, public office holders and delegates from the 36 states are expected to deliberate on national security, political stability and religious harmony.
Oloyede’s call came amid continuing political activities and preparations for the 2027 general elections, with the NSCIA stressing the importance of national interest and unity.
