Islamic cleric Sheikh Sunusi Kundila has warned his students against campaigning for a Muslim Muslim political ticket while fellow Muslims continue to face killings and insecurity.
In a statement circulating on social media, Kundila reportedly urged his students to consider the consequences of supporting political leaders who fail to protect people from violence.
He described the issue as one of moral and religious responsibility, warning that Muslims could be held accountable by God on the Day of Judgment for the political choices they make.
The cleric’s message questions whether shared religious identity should be enough to secure political support when the safety and welfare of citizens remain major concerns.
His position places the protection of human lives at the centre of the debate over Muslim Muslim political tickets, stressing the importance of judging leaders by their actions and their ability to protect the people they govern.
The issue is particularly significant in Nigeria, where insecurity, including attacks by armed groups, banditry and kidnappings, has affected communities in several parts of the country.
The Muslim Muslim ticket became a major national debate during the 2023 presidential election, when Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress chose Kashim Shettima, a fellow Muslim, as his running mate.
The arrangement drew different reactions across the country, with supporters defending the candidates’ constitutional right to choose a running mate based on their political considerations, while critics questioned the implications for religious representation and national unity.
As political discussions ahead of the 2027 general election continue, the debate over religion, leadership and security remains a significant issue in Nigeria.
Kundila’s reported warning brings renewed attention to the question of whether political loyalty should be based primarily on religious identity or on a leader’s record in protecting lives, maintaining security and serving the public.
The statement also highlights the broader question of accountability, particularly when communities continue to experience violence despite the promises and responsibilities of political leadership.
