Prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Qaribullahi Nasiru-Kabara has called on political and religious figures to exercise restraint and steer clear of inciting comments that might worsen national tensions.
He also enjoined them to use wisdom to promote peace and unity in the country.
Kabara, who is also the leader of the Qadiriyya Islamic Movement, said this in an address to mark the 76th Maukibi celebration, on Saturday in Kano.
He stressed the need for clerics and politicians to understand the influence of their words on society, urging them to use respectful and constructive language capable of strengthening peaceful coexistence.
The Qadiriyya leader said responsible communication was important in promoting peace and unity, particularly given their influences on the people.
Also, Nasiru Haruna-Kabara, a member of the 76th Maukibi Organising Committee, said that an estimated five million followers participated in the event.
He described the 2026 edition as one of the best in the history of the annual gathering, attributing the large turnout to participation by followers across the globe.
The chairman said that the event attracted participants from Lagos, Ogun, Kogi and other parts of the country, as well as the United Kingdom, United States, Niger Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, among others.
“The 76th edition also marked a new chapter in the history of the Maukibi, as the celebration was held at a new venue provided by the Kano State Government,” he said.
He commended the Kano government over the construction of the new facility for the Qadiriyya community, adding that the gesture provided a more suitable space for the growing number of participants.
Sheikh Kabara left the Qadiriyya House at Kabara area of Kano metropolis at about 9:15 a.m.
He led the procession through Makwarari; Yan-Mota, Koki and Kofar Mazugal before proceeding to the celebration venue along Katsina Road.
The event was attended by Sen. Abdul’Aziz Yari, Sen. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, and Ibrahim Kabiru-Masari, who represented President Bola Tinubu, as well as Gov. Abba Yusuf, representatives of traditional rulers and other dignitaries.
The Maukibi provides an opportunity for Qadiriyya followers to strengthen religious ties, promote unity and remind participants of the importance of peace and harmonious relations among members of the society. (NAN)
What You Should Know
This development highlights the growing concern among religious leaders over the safety and stability of the nation as political activities ramp up toward the 2027 elections. The call for caution emphasizes the heavy influence that leaders hold over their followers and the public at large.
- Positive Impact: Promotes peaceful coexistence, reduces the likelihood of election-related violence, and encourages responsible communication among influential figures.
- Potential Concerns: Failure by leaders to heed this warning could lead to heightened political friction, hate speech, and division among citizens along religious and political lines.
