By Nworisa Michael
The League of Chief Imams in Lagos has urged Nigerians, particularly residents of Lagos State, to refrain from protests or actions that could threaten peace in the country over the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.
The religious leaders made the call during the 2026 Ramadan Tafsir and Iftar programme held at Lagos House in Ikeja on Tuesday night.
Their appeal follows protests staged in parts of the country, especially in Lagos, by members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria on Monday. The demonstrations were reportedly held over the death of Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, during recent military strikes involving the United States and Israel.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the National Missioner and Chief Imam of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Sheikh Abdulrahman Ahmad, advised Nigerians to remain calm and avoid allowing international conflicts to trigger unrest locally.
According to him, the holy periods of Ramadan and Lent should be dedicated to prayers for peace in Lagos and across Nigeria rather than protests or demonstrations linked to the Middle East crisis.
He warned that any form of unrest could have wider consequences for society, stressing that such tensions could affect everyone regardless of who initiated them.
“This is a time for prayer and sober reflection. It is not a time for protests, insults or upheavals,” he said.
Sheikh Ahmad also expressed sadness over the loss of lives and destruction caused by the conflict in the Middle East. He added that while people may sympathize with victims of the crisis, they must ensure that their actions do not worsen the situation at home.
He urged Nigerians to choose peace and avoid becoming part of the problem if they cannot directly contribute to resolving the conflict.
