The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Jigawa State has rejected the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term by about 500 Islamic scholars who gathered in the state over the weekend.
In a statement, the party described the endorsement as contrary to Islamic teachings and urged religious leaders to maintain their independence and moral authority rather than openly backing political candidates.
The ADC also challenged several claims contained in the scholars’ communiqué, including the assertion that the Tinubu administration initiated the Kano-Dutse and Kano-Maradi railway project.
According to the party, the project was approved and awarded in 2021 under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The ADC therefore challenged the federal government to identify major projects that the Tinubu administration has initiated and completed in Jigawa State.
The party also disputed claims that the current administration has made significant progress in tackling insecurity, particularly across the North-West.
It cited recent reports of kidnappings and terrorist attacks in Kaduna, Sokoto and Zamfara states as evidence that serious security challenges remain.
The party further referenced an Al Jazeera report published on August 24, which showed what appeared to be hundreds of abducted people being held by armed men in Niger State. The ADC described it as irresponsible to suggest that Nigeria’s security challenges have been resolved while such incidents continue to occur.
The party warned Islamic scholars and clerics against allowing political influence, financial incentives or access to power to undermine their independence and credibility.
The ADC also criticised the removal of the petrol subsidy, arguing that it has contributed to higher transportation, food and living costs for Nigerians.
According to the party, Nigerians should assess the government based on measurable outcomes in areas such as security, economic welfare, employment, infrastructure, transparency and accountability.
While acknowledging that individual clerics have the right to hold and express their political opinions, the ADC stressed that such endorsements should not be presented as religious rulings or as representing the views of Nigeria’s entire Muslim community.