Lagos Islamic Group urges Nigerians to avoid protests amid US–Israel–Iran tensions

2026-03-04 - 11:47

By Olasunkanmi Akoni The League of Imams in Lagos State has urged Nigerians to refrain from protests that could disrupt peace, emphasizing that this is a time for prayer and reflection, not demonstrations. The call follows protests in parts of the country, including Lagos, over the recent US-Israeli strikes on Iran, which reportedly led to the death of Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, and heightened global tensions. Sheikh Abdul Rahman Ahmad, Chief Missioner of the Ansarudeen Society, made the appeal on behalf of the guild during the 2026 Ramadan Tafsir programme held at Lagos House, Ikeja, on Tuesday evening. Ahmad stressed that religious periods such as Ramadan and Lent should be used to pray for the peace and stability of Lagos and Nigeria. He warned against joining protests without understanding their implications, saying they could lead to unnecessary bloodshed. “This is a time for prayer, a time to be part of peace, this is not a time for protest and demonstration. This is not a time for insults. This is not a time for upheavals. It is a time of sober reflection,” he said. Acknowledging Nigeria’s vulnerability to global crises, Ahmad highlighted potential economic effects, including rising fuel prices, and cautioned that societal unrest could exacerbate the situation. He added: “We are not happy that our brothers and fellow human beings have been attacked on a daily basis, but if we cannot be part of the solution, we should not be part of the problem. Don’t join a protest that you don’t understand. Remember the lessons from #EndSARS. Don’t cause disruption.” Ahmad called on all clerics to use their platforms to preach against disaffection and unrest, urging citizens to prioritize peace and allow harmony to thrive across the country.