Islamic scholars can provide better leadership than politicians – Gumi

‎Kaduna-based Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has said Islamic scholars can provide better leadership than professional politicians because of their religious knowledge and moral training.

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‎Gumi made the statement in an interview with the BBC Hausa Service.

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‎He urged Islamic scholars across Nigeria to take a more active role in politics and governance.

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‎He said there was nothing in Islam that prevented Islamic scholars from participating in politics or holding public office.

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‎According to him, the Ulama should not limit their contribution to religious activities but should also take part in shaping society through political leadership.

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‎“Islamic scholars can bring stronger moral values and a greater sense of responsibility to governance because of their knowledge of Islamic teachings and fear of God.

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‎“Islam does not prevent an Islamic scholar from participating in politics or occupying a political office,” he said.

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‎The cleric also maintained that leaders guided by faith and moral principles would be more conscious of their duties to the people.

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‎He therefore called on Islamic scholars to consider contesting elections and seeking appointment positions instead of leaving politics entirely to professional politicians.

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‎Gumi said greater participation by the Ulama could help improve governance and promote accountability in public affairs.

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‎“Political leadership should not be seen as the exclusive responsibility of professional politicians. Islamic scholars, like other citizens, also have a role to play in providing leadership and contributing to the development of society,” he said.

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