A northern Nigerian Islamic cleric has sparked widespread debate after publicly rejecting what he described as an alleged political mobilization scheme tied to the 2027 presidential election.
In a video currently circulating on social media, the Kaduna-based scholar claimed he was invited to join a plan aimed at rallying Islamic scholars and traditional rulers across northern Nigeria in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s potential re-election bid in 2027.
According to the cleric, the proposed initiative was said to involve a large financial commitment reportedly intended to mobilize religious leaders and community influencers throughout the region. Speaking during a public gathering in Hausa, he said he was told that about ₦500 billion had allegedly been earmarked for the effort.
The Imam explained that he declined the invitation immediately, stressing that he would not allow his religious position to be used to advance political interests.
He said religious leaders have a responsibility to guide society with integrity rather than serve as tools for political campaigns. The cleric also expressed concern about the economic hardship faced by many Nigerians, questioning the justification for large political spending while citizens struggle with poverty, healthcare challenges, and deteriorating infrastructure.
According to him, hospitals across parts of the country still lack essential supplies, many schools remain in poor condition, and families are battling rising living costs. For these reasons, he insisted that religious leaders should focus on advocating truth and accountability rather than participating in politically driven arrangements.
The cleric further warned those allegedly behind the proposal not to approach him again with similar offers, emphasizing that his duty lies with God and the people rather than political actors.
In another part of the viral speech, he claimed the proposal included financial incentives for individuals involved in mobilizing support, allegedly offering him a percentage share related to the Muslim outreach component. He also suggested that a similar effort was being planned to mobilize Christian leaders.
However, analysts note that no official line item reflecting such an allocation currently exists in Nigeria’s reported ₦58 trillion 2026 federal budget.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the All Progressives Congress (APC) nor the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued an official response to the allegations contained in the video.
The claims have generated mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians praising the cleric’s stance as a show of integrity, while others have called for concrete evidence to support the allegations.
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The development comes amid growing political discussions and early maneuvering ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.