The League of Imams and Alfas in Lagos State has appealed to Nigerians to avoid actions capable of threatening national unity and peaceful coexistence, warning that rising global tensions could spiral into a crisis unless confronted with sustained prayers and restraint.
The appeal was made against the backdrop of protests reported in parts of the country following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, during recent U.S.–Israeli military strikes on Iran.
The clerics spoke on Tuesday night during the 2026 Ramadan Tafsir programme held at Lagos House Ikeja.
Speaking on behalf of the league, the Chief Missioner of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society, Sheikh Abdul Rahman Ahmad, urged Nigerians to use the Ramadan and Lenten seasons as periods of intense prayers for peace in Lagos State and the country at large, insisting that protests and demonstrations should be discouraged at this critical time.
According to him, Nigeria is not insulated from unfolding global developments, stressing the need for deep reflection, problem-solving and continuous prayers for both state and federal authorities.
“This is a time for prayer, a time to embrace peace. This is not a time for protests and demonstrations. This is not a time for insults or upheavals. It is a time for sober reflection,” Ahmad said.
He warned that crises, once triggered, often spread beyond those directly responsible.
“Allah has cautioned us about calamities which, when they occur, do not affect only those who caused them. At the moment, we are all feeling the impact,” he added.
Ahmad also raised concerns about the possible economic consequences of global instability, particularly rising fuel prices.
“I told the congregation to prepare for an increase in fuel prices. Anyone who has bought petrol recently can see the difference. It may go further, possibly even reaching N2,000 per litre. This may be the beginning of a third world war, or even something worse, except we confront it with prayer,” he said.
He noted that protests, both past and present, have often resulted in loss of lives, citing unrest in the Middle East and previous demonstrations in Nigeria as painful reminders.
“We are not happy that our fellow human beings are being attacked daily. But if we cannot be part of the solution, then we should not be part of the problem. Do not join protests you do not fully understand,” he cautioned.
Recalling the lingering effects of the #EndSARS protests, Ahmad warned against actions that could be hijacked by individuals with violent intentions.
“Your intention may be good, but do you know the next person who may hide under it to cause mayhem and destruction? That is why we appeal to everyone to be part of the solution, not part of the problem,” he said.
He further called on religious leaders across faiths to use their pulpits to preach peace, discourage disaffection and confusion, and promote harmony, urging Nigerians to allow peace to prevail across the country.