The League of Chief Imams has cautioned Nigerians, particularly residents of Lagos, against staging protests or engaging in actions that could threaten peaceful coexistence in the country over the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The appeal was made during the 2026 Ramadan Tafsir/Iftar programme held at Lagos House on Tuesday night, where Islamic leaders called for restraint and urged citizens not to interfere in the escalating tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States.

The clerics were reacting to protests that took place in parts of the country, particularly in Lagos, by members of the South-West chapter of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria over the reported killing of Ali Khamenei during recent United States–Israel strikes on Iran.

Speaking on behalf of the group, the National Missioner and Chief Imam of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Abdulrahman Ahmad, called for calm and warned that Nigeria must not allow international crises to ignite domestic unrest.

He urged Nigerians to use the holy seasons of Ramadan and Lent to pray for peace and stability rather than engage in protests or demonstrations related to the Middle East conflict.

According to him, Nigeria is already affected by global developments, particularly in the economy, stressing that citizens should focus on reflection, prayer and supporting government efforts at both state and federal levels.

Ahmad warned that crises such as the Middle East conflict could have wider consequences, including economic shocks, noting that rising global tensions could push fuel prices significantly higher in Nigeria.

He also referenced the aftermath of the EndSARS protests, which led to widespread destruction in Lagos and other parts of the country, warning that Nigeria could not afford another round of unrest.

The cleric urged Nigerians not to be influenced by propaganda or participate in demonstrations over issues that do not directly concern the nation, stressing that citizens should instead pray for those affected by the conflict and for peace at home.

The League of Chief Imams further called on religious leaders across the country to use their pulpits to promote unity, discourage disaffection and encourage spiritual reflection, expressing hope that the holy month of Ramadan would bring peace and relief to the world.

The Ramadan Tafsir/Iftar gathering was attended by Islamic scholars, Muslim faithful, government officials, civil servants and members of the media.