Middle East Crisis: League of Chief Imams Urge Nigerians to Shun Protests, Safeguard National Peace

T The League of Chief Imams has called on Nigerians, especially residents of Lagos State, to refrain from protests or actions capable of undermining peace in the wake of the escalating Middle East crisis involving Iran, Israel and the United States.

The appeal was made at the 2026 Ramadan Tafsir/Iftar programme held at Lagos House, Ikeja, amid concerns over recent demonstrations in parts of the country. The protests, particularly in Lagos, were reportedly organised by members of the South-West chapter of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria following the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, during United States-Israeli strikes.

Addressing the gathering, the National Missioner and Chief Imam of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Abdulrahman Ahmad, warned that Nigeria must not allow external conflicts to ignite internal instability.

He emphasised that the sacred periods of Ramadan and Lent should serve as moments of spiritual reflection and supplication rather than agitation.

“This is not a time for protest and demonstration. This is not a time for insults or upheavals. It is a time of sober reflection. We must beware of fitnah because when it happens, it affects everyone — not only those responsible for it,” he said.

Sheikh Ahmad noted that although the crisis is geographically distant, its economic and social consequences are already being felt locally. He cautioned that global instability could worsen Nigeria’s economic challenges, particularly in the energy sector.

“Prepare for an increase in fuel prices. What is happening globally will affect us. Petrol prices may rise significantly — it could even approach N2,000 per litre or more. We must respond with prayer and patience,” he stated.

While expressing sympathy for victims of the conflict, the cleric urged Nigerians to avoid becoming instruments of propaganda or unrest. According to him, citizens who cannot directly contribute to resolving the crisis should at least ensure they do not compound problems at home.

Drawing lessons from the 2020 EndSARS protests, which resulted in widespread destruction across Lagos and other states, he warned that the nation is still recovering from the aftermath and cannot afford renewed disruption.

“Your intention may be good, but you must ask yourself who may hijack such protests for destructive purposes. The country is still dealing with the effects of past unrest. Let us not open another chapter of instability,” he cautioned.

The League of Chief Imams further urged religious leaders across denominations to use their platforms to preach peace, unity and responsible citizenship, stressing that the sanctity of Ramadan should inspire harmony and not division.

The well-attended Tafsir/Iftar programme brought together Islamic clerics, Muslim faithful, senior government officials, civil servants and members of the media, all united in prayers for peace in Nigeria and across the world.