Islamic leaders in Lagos have advised Nigerians to exercise restraint and verify issues thoroughly before participating in any public demonstrations, warning that peaceful intentions alone may not prevent unrest from being exploited by disruptive elements.
The caution was issued at the 2026 Ramadan Tafsir/Iftar programme held at Lagos House in Ikeja.
Speaking on behalf of the League of Chief Imams, the National Missioner and Chief Imam of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Abdulrahman Ahmad, urged citizens to avoid being drawn into protests linked to foreign conflicts, stressing that Nigeria must prioritise its own stability.
He said individuals should not engage in demonstrations without fully understanding their objectives or potential consequences.
“We must be careful about participating in actions we do not clearly understand. Good intentions are important, but they are not enough to prevent others from exploiting gatherings for violence,” he said.
The cleric warned that public unrest can quickly escalate if infiltrated by disruptive actors, citing past experiences as a lesson for the country.
He referenced the EndSars protests as an example of how demonstrations that began peacefully were later hijacked, leading to widespread destruction in parts of the country.
According to him, Nigeria cannot afford a repeat of such instability, particularly at a time of heightened global tensions.
Ahmad also urged religious leaders to promote unity and calm during sermons, encouraging messages that foster peace rather than division.
Drawing attention to developments in the Middle East, he cautioned against actions that could drag the country into external disputes, calling instead for reflection and prayer.
Members of the South-West chapter of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria had recently staged demonstrations in response to international developments, prompting concern from the clerics about potential escalation.
The League urged Nigerians to remain united, warning that unrest can affect everyone. They called for dialogue, peace and prayers for stability at home and abroad.
About the Author
