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.
Gumi made the statement in an interview with the BBC Hausa Service.
He urged Islamic scholars across Nigeria to take a more active role in politics and governance.
He said there was nothing in Islam that prevented Islamic scholars from participating in politics or holding public office.
According to him, the Ulama should not limit their contribution to religious activities but should also take part in shaping society through political leadership.
“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.
“Islam does not prevent an Islamic scholar from participating in politics or occupying a political office,” he said.
The cleric also maintained that leaders guided by faith and moral principles would be more conscious of their duties to the people.
He therefore called on Islamic scholars to consider contesting elections and seeking appointment positions instead of leaving politics entirely to professional politicians.
Gumi said greater participation by the Ulama could help improve governance and promote accountability in public affairs.
“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.