WorldStage— The League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland has declared that it will not endorse any politician or political party ahead of the upcoming 2027 general elections.
The announcement was made on Saturday, November 14, 2026 during a three-day conference held in Ibadan, Oyo State, which brought together Islamic scholars, political officeholders, and traditional leaders.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the League’s Board of Trustees, Sheikh Muhammad Habibullah Adam Abdullahi El-Ilory, emphasized that the organization plays a neutral, paternal role in society rather than a partisan one.
“We are religious leaders; we are not politicians, but we are the fathers of politicians,” El-Ilory stated.
He noted that the League’s primary responsibility is to intercede and pray for the emergence of competent and credible leaders rather than taking sides in electoral contests.
Echoing this stance, the President of the League, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere, urged Islamic clerics across the region to stay focused on spiritual guidance, moral instruction, and preaching the teachings of Islam.
He maintained that imams should not be entangled in the mechanics of partisan politics, adding that their main contribution to the nation’s political landscape is praying to God to grant Nigeria wise and honest leadership.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who attended the gathering, commended the position of the religious body.
He warned against using religion as a tool to divide the electorate, urging Nigerians to remain united and prioritize national interest over sectional or religious sentiments as the 2027 polls approach.
The declaration comes amid heightened political discussions in the region regarding religious alignments and candidate support, with the League reinforcing its commitment to maintaining peace, neutrality, and moral authority across Yorubaland.
