The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has rejected the reported endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by more than 500 Islamic scholars in Jigawa State.
The scholars reportedly expressed support for Tinubu’s bid for a second term ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
However, the ADC said the endorsement should not be presented as the position of Nigeria’s Muslim community.
ADC Questions Tinubu’s Endorsement
The ADC said individual Islamic scholars have the right to support any political candidate.
However, the party argued that religious leaders should remain independent.
The opposition party also warned against presenting political support as a religious position.
According to the ADC, such endorsements could affect the credibility and independence of religious leaders.
ADC Challenges Claims About Government Projects
The party also questioned some of the claims made about the Tinubu administration’s achievements.
In particular, the ADC disputed claims surrounding the Kano-Dutse/Kano-Maradi railway project.
The party said the project was approved and awarded under former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2021.
The ADC therefore challenged the Federal Government to identify major capital projects that were initiated and completed by the Tinubu administration in Jigawa.
Party Raises Security Concerns
The ADC also criticised claims that security has improved significantly across the North-West.
The party pointed to continued reports of kidnapping and terrorist attacks in parts of the region.
It argued that these incidents show that security remains a major concern for Nigerians.
The party said the government must do more to protect communities and improve safety.
ADC Highlights Economic Hardship
The opposition party also raised concerns about the country’s economic situation.
It pointed to the rising cost of food, transportation and other basic needs.
The ADC linked some of the economic pressure to the removal of the petrol subsidy.
The party urged Nigerians to judge the Tinubu administration based on issues that directly affect their lives.
These include:
- Security
- Food prices
- Employment
- Infrastructure
- Economic welfare
- Transparency
- Accountability
2027 Election Debate Intensifies
The endorsement in Jigawa comes as political activities increase ahead of the 2027 general election.
President Tinubu is expected to seek another term in office.
Support from political, religious and community groups is likely to become an important part of the campaign.
Opposition parties, meanwhile, are expected to continue challenging the government’s record.
ADC Calls for Religious Neutrality
The ADC said it respects the right of individual religious leaders to make their political choices.
However, the party believes such support should not be presented as a collective religious position.
The disagreement also highlights the wider debate about the role of religion in Nigerian politics.
As the 2027 presidential election draws closer, political parties and influential groups are likely to intensify their campaigns.
For the ADC, the focus should remain on the government’s record and the issues affecting Nigerians.
The debate over Tinubu’s 2027 bid is expected to grow as more political groups take positions ahead of the election.
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