Sheikh Alkali Abubakar Salihu Zaria has strongly criticised some Nigerian Islamic clerics, accusing them of misleading ordinary citizens and putting political interests ahead of the needs of the people.
In a recent video, the outspoken Islamic scholar questioned the continued visits of leaders linked to the Tijjaniyya and Izala movements to the Presidential Villa, particularly when such visits are made alongside political figures.
Sheikh Zaria challenged the idea that any Islamic group or clerical organisation can claim to speak for all Nigerian Muslims or for the wider population.
He urged citizens not to allow themselves to be misled in the name of religion, arguing that meetings between religious leaders and those in power can create the impression that the clerics are carrying the mandate of the people when they may instead be pursuing political interests.
According to the sheikh, religious leaders must remember that their primary responsibility is to the people and to the principles they preach, not to those occupying positions of political power.
His latest comments are in line with his previous criticism of government officials over insecurity and poor governance. Earlier this year, Sheikh Zaria faced suspension from a major Izala faction after delivering sermons in which he accused northern governors and President Bola Tinubu of failing to do enough to tackle banditry, kidnapping and the wider security crisis affecting communities across the region.
In his latest message, the scholar again focused on accountability and the need for religious leaders to remain independent from political power.
He warned that when clerics repeatedly appear at the seat of government alongside politicians, they risk losing the trust of ordinary followers who expect them to speak honestly about their struggles.
For Sheikh Zaria, access to political leaders should not come at the cost of public trust. He maintained that religious figures should not give the impression that they represent the entire Muslim population simply because they have access to government officials.
The sheikh also stressed that democracy ultimately belongs to the people. Religious organisations, political parties and influential individuals may have important roles in society, but none should claim ownership of the people’s voice.
His remarks have circulated widely among audiences in northern Nigeria, where many viewers have praised him for openly challenging both religious and political leaders.
Supporters say his criticism reflects a growing frustration among citizens who believe some religious figures have become too close to those in power while ordinary Nigerians continue to face insecurity, economic hardship and declining confidence in public institutions.
The controversy also highlights the difficult relationship between religion and politics in Nigeria, where prominent clerics can wield considerable influence and their meetings with political leaders often attract public attention.
Sheikh Alkali Abubakar Salihu Zaria has continued to argue that genuine religious leadership requires courage, honesty and accountability. In his view, clerics must stand with the people and speak about their problems, even when doing so puts them at odds with those in government.
His latest warning is therefore not simply about visits to the Presidential Villa. It is a broader call for religious leaders to protect their independence and ensure that their influence is used to defend the interests of ordinary citizens rather than strengthen political alliances.
