Killings, hardship: 1,000 northern Islamic clerics tell Tinubu to drop 2027 re-election bid

No fewer than 1,000 northern Islamic clerics have urged President Bola Tinubu to abandon his 2027 re-election bid, citing persistent killings, kidnappings, terrorism and economic hardship.

According to Vanguard, the demand was contained in a communiqué issued after a national conference in Kano organised by Ko Da Naka in collaboration with AFAQ Educational Foundation.

“Alternatively, the President should refrain from contesting the 2027 election. If he refuses to do so, it is incumbent upon citizens to reject his candidacy and allow those whom they believe can provide better leadership,” the communiqué said.

The clerics urged the government to urgently address insecurity, particularly in the North-West, while criticising fuel subsidy removal, exchange-rate reforms, electricity tariff increases and tax policies.

“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 government prioritised the growth of its revenue at a time when the rising cost of living and unemployment are threatening the lives and well-being of citizens,” they said.

The clerics also expressed concern over the migration of doctors, teachers, engineers and other skilled professionals, urging government to improve salaries, working conditions and professional opportunities.

They said participants “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.”