Renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Husain Yakub Rano, has urged political leaders, public officials and those aspiring to positions of authority to fear Allah and serve Nigerians with justice, compassion and integrity.
Sheikh Rano made the call in a statement issued on Tuesday, stressing that politicians and leaders must conduct themselves with respect, patience and mutual understanding while in public office.
Sheikh Rano Reminds Leaders That Power Is Temporary
The Islamic scholar reminded those in positions of authority that political power is temporary and that no individual remains in office forever.
According to him, regardless of how long a person stays in power, the day will come when they will leave office either at the expiration of their tenure, through replacement or by the decree of Allah.
“What remains after a person is not political power, but their actions and the legacy they leave behind. Therefore, everyone whom Allah has entrusted with leadership must fear Him and remember that leadership is a great trust for which they will be accountable before Allah,” he said.
The message comes amid continuing political activity in Nigeria, where questions around leadership, public accountability, responsible governance and the conduct of political actors remain central to national debate. The Bureau Journal recently reported on an initiative recognising public officials for leadership, service delivery and responsible governance.
Leaders Urged to Protect Vulnerable Nigerians
Sheikh Rano called on leaders to be fair to the people, show compassion to ordinary citizens, listen to the concerns of vulnerable members of society and protect the rights of those without a voice.
He urged political office holders to use their positions to serve the people rather than oppress them or betray the trust placed in them.
He said public office should be treated as a responsibility entrusted to individuals for the benefit of society, rather than as an opportunity for personal advantage.
The call for responsible political conduct also echoes concerns raised in a recent report on calls for peaceful and responsible political campaigns in Gombe State, where political actors were urged to exercise restraint and respect opposing views.
Justice Is Among the Greatest Legacies of Leadership
Sheikh Rano described justice as one of the greatest legacies any leader can leave behind, noting that responsible leadership requires patience, courage, sacrifice and the fear of Allah.
“Just and responsible leadership is not easy. It requires patience, courage, sacrifice and the fear of Allah. Yet its reward is immense. As Muslims, we believe that among those who will be granted shade on the Day of Resurrection is a just ruler,” he stated.
The scholar also warned leaders against oppression, recalling the serious warnings of Prophet Muhammad against those entrusted with the affairs of people but who instead cause hardship and injustice to them.
His emphasis on accountability and responsible leadership comes as political parties and aspirants continue to position themselves for future electoral contests. The Bureau Journal’s guide to Nigeria’s 2027 elections examines the wider political environment and issues expected to shape the next general election.
Sheikh Rano Calls on Good People to Enter Politics
Sheikh Rano further emphasised the importance of responsible participation in public affairs, urging people of good character, knowledge, integrity and patriotism not to withdraw from politics and leadership.
He warned that the absence of people committed to positive values could leave the public space open to individuals with little concern for the future of the people.
“Either good people step forward to encourage others and bring positive change, or the public space will be left to those who have little concern for the future of the people,” he said.
Political ambitions, however, can also create internal competition within parties. Recent reporting by The Bureau Journal has examined how political influence and competing ambitions are shaping party candidate selection ahead of the 2027 elections.
Scholar Calls for Unity and Patriotism
He stressed that Nigeria’s future depends on peace, unity, reflection and visionary leadership, while calling on citizens to stop blaming and insulting one another and to reduce hatred and division.
According to him, every Nigerian has a role to play in rebuilding the country by contributing positively through the talents and abilities Allah has given them.
“Let us unite, work together, rebuild together, and prosper together. If we continue with division and hatred, the suffering of our country will affect everyone. But if we unite upon truth, justice and patriotism, there is great hope for a better Nigeria,” he added.
The importance of unity among political actors has also featured in recent developments, including calls for reconciliation and restraint following political disagreements over a Kogi East senatorial contest.
In another recent development, The Bureau Journal reported on cooperation between the Kebbi State Government and traditional institutions on peace, development and inclusive governance.
Sheikh Rano Prays for Just and Compassionate Leaders
Sheikh Rano concluded by praying for the emergence of leaders who fear Allah and govern with justice and compassion.
“May Allah grant us leaders who fear Him and who are just and compassionate. May He also grant us the wisdom to choose and support those who will bring goodness to our country and our people.
“May Allah reform Nigeria, unite the hearts of its citizens, and grant us relief from all the hardships we are facing,” he prayed.
The call places justice, accountability, compassion and patriotism at the centre of the scholar’s message to political leaders, aspirants and citizens, with an emphasis on viewing leadership as a trust rather than a permanent possession.
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