More than 1,000 Islamic scholars from across northern Nigeria have raised concerns over the state of the country under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with economic hardship and insecurity dominating discussions ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The scholars reportedly made their position known during a conference held in Kano on Sunday, October 4, 2026, titled “An Assessment of the State of the Nation under President Tinubu and the 2027 Elections.” The event was organised by Ko Da Naka in collaboration with the AAFAQ Educational Foundation.
The gathering brought together Islamic scholars and experts from different parts of Northern Nigeria to examine developments in the country and assess the impact of government policies on citizens.
According to a report by Hikaya Newspaper, the participants expressed concern over the rising cost of living and the economic difficulties faced by Nigerians, particularly low-income households.
The scholars reportedly linked some of the challenges to policies introduced under the Tinubu administration, including the removal of fuel subsidies and broader economic reforms.
They also raised concerns over insecurity, particularly killings, kidnappings and banditry in parts of the North-West.
The participants called for stronger action from the Federal Government to protect citizens and address the security challenges affecting communities.
The conference also examined issues surrounding tax reforms, electricity tariffs and changes in the value of the naira, with participants arguing that these developments have continued to affect households and businesses.
Another concern raised at the meeting was the growing movement of Nigerian professionals abroad. The scholars reportedly expressed worry over doctors, teachers, engineers and other skilled professionals leaving the country in search of better working conditions and improved living standards.
On the political implications of the challenges, the participants reportedly warned that failure to achieve meaningful progress could influence public opinion ahead of the 2027 elections.
They also called for Nigerians to assess political candidates based on competence, policies and their ability to address national challenges rather than simply voting along party lines.
The reported position comes as political activities around the 2027 presidential election intensify.
President Tinubu is seeking a second term under the All Progressives Congress, while opposition parties and political groups are also mobilising ahead of the election.
The views expressed by the scholars also come against the backdrop of differing positions among Muslim leaders. In August, a separate gathering involving about 500 Islamic scholars and religious leaders was reported to have endorsed Tinubu for a second term, although one participant later disputed the reported endorsement.
With the election approaching, the competing positions highlight the growing political debate among religious and community leaders over the direction of Nigeria and the performance of the current administration.