Renowned Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has urged leaders of political parties to take charge of their supporters and ensure they do not resort to violence as the 2027 general elections draw closer.
Gumi made the call while speaking on the rising tension in the polity, warning that politics must not be turned into a battleground.
According to him, party leaders have a duty to talk to their followers, calm them down and stop them from attacking opponents or causing trouble in their communities.
He said no ambition is worth the blood of any Nigerian, adding that leaders who look away while their supporters cause violence should be held responsible for the breakdown of peace.
The cleric also advised politicians to compete with ideas and programmes, rather than with threats, insults and physical attacks.
He noted that violence during elections has in the past left families in pain, destroyed property and weakened trust in the democratic process.
Gumi, therefore, called on party leaders, candidates and their supporters to shun violence in all its forms and embrace peace before, during and after the 2027 polls.
He urged security agencies and other stakeholders to also play their part in ensuring a peaceful atmosphere for the elections.
“Control your supporters now or violence will consume us all. Violence does not translate into votes; it only alienates voters and undermines democracy,” Gumi said.