A major political development ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections unfolded in Jos, Plateau State, where more than 500 Islamic scholars, alongside top political figures, endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term.
The endorsement came during a national symposium organised by the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis-Sunnah (JIBWIS), themed “Enhanced Political Participation and Social Justice as a Panacea for Unity and Development in Nigeria.” The event attracted over 350 participants, including clerics, political leaders, academics, youth groups and professionals from across the country.
Hosted by JIBWIS National President, Sheikh Muhammad Sani Yahaya Jingir, the symposium featured governors of Kano, Sokoto, Yobe and Jigawa states, the Minister of Water Resources, the Deputy President of the Senate and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political Affairs.
🔹 Tinubu Endorsement Adds Political Weight
The endorsement of President Tinubu injected a significant political tone into the gathering, coming as political actors intensify mobilisation and realignments ahead of the 2027 elections. JIBWIS also declared support for any position taken by its Ulama’u Council Chairman, Sheikh Jingir, including the possibility of backing a Muslim-Muslim ticket.
However, the organisation stressed that political participation must be guided by integrity, competence, justice, accountability and service to humanity, not ethnic or sectional interests.
🔹 Call for Issue-Based Politics
JIBWIS urged political parties to strengthen internal democracy, promote issue-based campaigns and reject hate speech, manipulation and divisive rhetoric.
🔹 Security Concerns Dominate Discussions
Scholars expressed deep concern over terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal violence. While commending the Armed Forces and security agencies, they called for:
- Improved intelligence gathering
- Stronger inter-agency collaboration
- Better training and equipment
- Tackling root causes such as poverty, unemployment, illiteracy and social exclusion
The organisation also appealed for intensified efforts to rescue about 78 children reportedly abducted in Borno State, while commending the rescue of 44 schoolchildren in Oyo State.
🔹 Push for Inclusive Governance
Participants urged leaders to ensure fairness and competence in public appointments and development initiatives. They warned against exploiting religious or ethnic differences for political gain and encouraged Nigerians to reject hate speech, intolerance and discrimination.
🔹 Responsible Communication & Social Justice
JIBWIS called on religious leaders, journalists, political actors and social-media users to promote responsible communication and constructive public debate. It emphasised equitable distribution of opportunities and public resources as key to strengthening national unity.
🔹 Ahead of 2027 Elections
With the elections approaching, the organisation appealed to governments, political parties, security agencies, religious institutions, traditional rulers, civil society groups and citizens to work together for a Nigeria rooted in justice, peace, security, accountability and equality.
It urged Nigerians to resolve political disagreements through dialogue and lawful democratic processes rather than violence.
