Ashura Day 2026: Akorede urges Muslims to participate actively in politics for greater representation. By Bimbo Adeniyi 

Ashura Day 2026: Akorede urges Muslims to participate actively in politics for greater representation

By Bimbo Adeniyi 

The Grand Imam of Akure Kingdom, Alhaji Yayi Akorede, on Thursday urged Muslims in Ondo State to embrace active participation in politics, stressing that doing so would strengthen their voice in governance and improve their representation in the state’s political landscape.

Akorede made the call during the 2026 Ashura Day celebration organised by the Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria (MMPN), Ondo State Chapter, in Akure.

Speaking at the event, the Grand Imam said active participation in politics would enable Muslims to contribute meaningfully to governance while increasing their chances of securing political appointments and leadership positions.

He encouraged Muslims across the state to take a keen interest in political activities and ensure they are adequately represented in the decision-making process.

Akorede also commended the MMPN for organising the programme, describing it as a platform for enlightenment, spiritual reflection, and the promotion of Islamic values.

Explaining the significance of Ashura, the Grand Imam said the occasion is a day of fasting, prayer and devotion rather than merrymaking, urging Muslims to observe it with sincerity and reverence.

“Ashura is a significant day that Muslims should remember and observe with prayers, particularly for future generations and the progress of the nation,” he said.

He added that Nigeria belongs to all its citizens and appealed to Nigerians to support the government in its efforts to address the country’s challenges.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, Ondo State Chapter, Mallam Jubril Bada, said the programme was organised to educate, inspire and nurture younger generations while fostering unity among Muslims.

According to him, the association remains committed to promoting literacy, intellectual development and the study of Islam among young people.

Bada also urged Islamic leaders to intensify efforts to promote peace, unity and harmony within their communities, particularly as the 2027 general elections draw nearer.

Delivering a lecture at the event, the guest lecturer, Sheikh AbdulRafiu Ajiboye Lagbaji, traced the origin of Ashura and highlighted its spiritual significance in Islam.

He urged Muslims to reflect on the importance of the day and encouraged parents to place greater emphasis on the moral and spiritual upbringing of their children.

Lagbaji also called on the government to engage traditional rulers and religious leaders in tackling the country’s security challenges.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, Prince Leke Adegbite, expressed concern over what he described as the marginalisation of Muslims in political appointments in Ondo State.

According to him, despite the sizeable Muslim population in the state, they remain underrepresented in key government positions.

Adegbite called on Islamic leaders to sustain engagement with political party leaders to ensure fair representation of Muslims in governance.

The event brought together Islamic scholars, media practitioners and members of the Muslim community to reflect on the spiritual significance of Ashura and deliberate on issues affecting Muslims and national development.

Also in attendance were representatives of Muslim Secondary School, Oke Aro; MSSN Islamic Model College, Akure; and Baytur Rahman Concept School, who entertained the audience with various presentations.