The League of Chief Imams has called on Nigerians, particularly residents of Lagos State, to remain calm and promote peaceful coexistence despite tensions arising from developments in the Middle East.
Eko Hot News reports that the appeal was made during the 2026 Ramadan Tafsir and Iftar programme held at Lagos House, where Islamic clerics gathered with government officials and members of the Muslim community.
The clerics advised citizens to refrain from demonstrations or actions that could create tension in the country. They emphasised the importance of preserving unity and maintaining stability across communities.
The statement followed public gatherings organised in some parts of the country by members of the South-West chapter of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria concerning developments in the Middle East.
Speaking on behalf of the clerics, the National Missioner and Chief Imam of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Sheikh Abdulrahman Ahmad, encouraged Nigerians to exercise patience and restraint during the current period.
He explained that Nigeria should not allow global developments to create tension within the country. According to him, maintaining peace remains essential for national stability and progress.
Sheikh Ahmad noted that the holy month of Ramadan and the Christian season of Lent are periods dedicated to prayer, reflection and spiritual growth. He urged citizens to focus on these values instead of organising demonstrations.
The cleric also reminded Nigerians that international developments can affect local economies and daily living conditions. He therefore encouraged citizens to seek divine guidance while supporting efforts that promote stability.
According to him, prayer and reflection remain important tools for national progress. He added that citizens should pray for leaders and institutions to succeed in their responsibilities at both state and federal levels.
Sheikh Ahmad also encouraged Nigerians to avoid misinformation and propaganda that could lead to misunderstanding. He stressed that people should be careful about participating in activities without clear knowledge of their implications.
The cleric further urged citizens to reflect on previous experiences in the country when large public gatherings led to disruptions in daily activities and economic losses.
He noted that Nigeria continues to rebuild from earlier periods of unrest and therefore needs collective efforts to maintain harmony across communities.
Sheikh Ahmad added that unity and responsibility remain essential values for national development. He encouraged Nigerians to support initiatives that strengthen peaceful coexistence.
The clerics also urged religious leaders across the country to use their platforms to promote messages of peace, patience and national unity.
They explained that faith leaders play an important role in guiding their congregations toward constructive actions that benefit society.
Participants at the Ramadan Tafsir and Iftar programme included Islamic scholars, Muslim faithful, senior government officials, civil servants and journalists.
The gathering served as an opportunity for spiritual reflection and discussions on national development during the holy month.
The League of Chief Imams concluded the programme by encouraging Nigerians to embrace harmony, responsibility and prayer for peace across the world.
They also expressed hope that the spiritual significance of Ramadan would inspire greater compassion, understanding and unity among citizens.
