Don’t stake your lives on politicians, cleric warns youths

The Deputy Imam of Zam-Zam Juma’at Mosque in Hotoro, Kano State, Malam Umar Mukhtar, has cautioned Nigerian youths against risking their lives for politicians, urging them to shun political violence and pursue legitimate means of livelihood.

Mukhtar gave the warning in an interview with The Historica Nigeria on Friday, stressing that elections should be peaceful civic exercises in which citizens cast their votes and the majority determines the winner without violence or hostility among neighbours.

He urged youths not to allow political differences to destroy relationships or turn them against one another, emphasising that no political ambition should be worth the loss of human lives.

The cleric expressed concern over the tendency of political supporters to defend their preferred candidates despite acknowledging their shortcomings, warning against placing excessive loyalty in politicians.

Read Also:

‘Leadership must touch lives’: Kano Imam tasks leaders, lawmakers on campaign promises

Kidnapped Nigerians Now Left to Die in Captivity as Poverty Deepens – Islamic Cleric

Islamic Month of Rajab Holds Spiritual Significance but No Exclusive Worship, Says Kano Cleric

He urged Muslims to remain focused on their religious obligations and avoid depending solely on politicians for their livelihood and future prospects.

Quoting the Qur’an, Mukhtar cited Surah Adh-Dhariyat, verse 56, which states that Allah created jinn and mankind to worship Him, explaining that this does not prevent people from seeking lawful wealth or pursuing legitimate opportunities.

He also referenced Qur’anic teachings encouraging believers to seek Allah’s bounty and place their trust in Him rather than becoming excessively dependent on other people.

According to him, reliance on Allah must go hand in hand with hard work and the pursuit of lawful means of sustenance.

The Deputy Imam further cited Surah Al-Jumu’ah, which encourages believers to disperse through the land and seek Allah’s bounty after Friday prayers, as a reminder of the importance of productive engagement.

He warned that relying exclusively on political patronage while neglecting economic opportunities could expose some youths to thuggery, criminal activities and other social vices.

Mukhtar called on young people to embrace peaceful coexistence, develop their means of livelihood and participate in elections without allowing political differences to undermine their safety or community relationships.

He also prayed for Allah to grant Nigeria good leaders who would govern responsibly and promote the welfare of the people.