Worshippers walked out of a Juma’at mosque in Jalingo, Taraba State, on Friday. The Chief Imam, Sheikh Ibrahim Jalo Jalingo, had urged the congregation to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. He also defended the government against claims that it is oppressive. The sermon drew immediate backlash. Many worshippers stood and left. Some shouted in protest. Security personnel escorted the imam away. The incident was captured in videos that circulated online.
Nigerian clerics have long intervened in politics. In the north, imams and pastors often endorse candidates. In 2019 and 2023, prominent religious leaders campaigned openly. The practice is contested. Critics say it compromises the pulpit. Supporters say clerics have a duty to guide their congregations. In 2026, the line between preaching and campaigning has become a flashpoint. In September, the Sultan of Sokoto called for interfaith meals. In October, a JIBWIS-affiliated group was caught in a viral video chanting for attacks on Christians. Religion and politics are colliding across the region.
The imam’s sermon was political. He told worshippers that Tinubu’s government is not oppressive. A worshipper shouted, “That’s a lie.” Others walked out. The imam did not stop. Security intervened. The scene was chaotic. The videos spread quickly.
The incident follows a similar case in Bauchi State. In October, an imam was removed after he preached in favour of a political candidate. The pattern is emerging. Congregations are increasingly unwilling to accept political sermons. The economic hardship is the backdrop. Fuel prices remain above ₦1,400 per litre. Food inflation is 19.59%. The government’s reforms have been painful. Worshippers who cannot afford basic necessities reject the claim that the government is not oppressive. The imam’s defence of the government contradicts their lived experience.
The Taraba State Government has not commented. The mosque has not issued a statement. The imam has not spoken publicly since the incident. Security agencies have not announced an investigation.
Winners: The worshippers, who asserted their voice. Critics of political sermons, who gained a precedent. Social media, which gained content. Losers: The imam, whose authority was publicly challenged. The mosque, which faces division. The government, whose defender was rejected. The political process, which is being fought in pulpits. Nigerians, who see another religious institution politicised.
Bottom Line: An imam told his congregation to support Tinubu. They walked out. He said the government is not oppressive. They know it is. The pulpit is not a campaign platform. The congregation reminded him. The 2027 election will test whether clerics can still deliver votes. This one could not.