The Ulama Forum in Nigeria has strongly criticized the reported security partnership between the Federal Government and the State of Israel, describing it as dangerous, insensitive, and undemocratic.
The condemnation follows reports of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Nigeria and Israel for security cooperation, which the forum argues goes against Nigeria’s moral and diplomatic values, especially at a time when global attention is focused on Israel’s actions in Gaza.
In a statement issued on Monday, signed by the Forum’s Convener, Aminu Inuwa Muhammad, and Secretary, Engr. Basheer Adamu Aliyu, the Islamic scholars said Nigeria should not be aligning with a country currently facing global criticism over its military operations in Palestine.
The statement read: “How can a country battling for its own survival assist another country that is better off in terms of security? One cannot give what one does not have. It is dangerous and insensitive to the plight of oppressed people, particularly Palestinians, for Nigeria to be seen forming a security alliance with Israel at this moment.”
The clerics pointed out that several countries have condemned Israel’s alleged war crimes and human rights violations in Gaza, and some have even supported South Africa’s legal case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). According to them, Nigeria should have taken a similar stand in solidarity with global justice and human rights.
They particularly faulted the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Bianca Ojukwu, for what they described as a “diplomatic romance” with Israel, saying such actions could damage Nigeria’s international image and moral standing.
The Ulama Forum warned that inviting foreign countries like Israel into Nigeria’s internal security matters could pose serious risks to national sovereignty, accountability, and long-term stability.
They listed three key dangers of such foreign involvement:
1. Loss of Sovereignty – Allowing foreign security agencies into Nigerian affairs could weaken the country’s independence and decision-making power.
2. Lack of Accountability – Foreign forces may operate outside Nigerian laws, potentially violating human rights without consequences.
3. Weak Sustainability – Relying on external help might prevent Nigeria from building its own strong and efficient security infrastructure.
According to the Forum, Nigeria’s current security crisis—ranging from terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence must be tackled through local, homegrown solutions. These, they said, include strengthening national institutions, promoting community engagement, rebuilding trust between citizens and security agencies, and ensuring justice and accountability for all.
“Real security solutions come from within—through good governance, justice, inclusive leadership, and protection of human rights,” the statement said.
The Forum further advised the Federal Government to address the root causes of insecurity in the country, which they said include poverty, corruption, and extravagant lifestyles among public officials that alienate the masses.
“Security cannot be achieved by weapons alone. It requires fairness, justice, and the willingness of leaders to lead by example,” they said.
They also urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to caution the minister involved in the MoU and take immediate steps to review and possibly reverse the agreement with Israel. According to them, foreign support should be guided strictly by national interest, constitutional principles, and the well-being of citizens.
The statement added: “We call on the Federal Government to place priority on homegrown security solutions and avoid entangling Nigeria in foreign alliances that may compromise our national values and unity.”
In conclusion, the Ulama Forum reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s armed forces and security agencies through prayers and public encouragement. They called for transparency in how the government handles national security and asked for more focus on community dialogue and reconciliation in conflict-prone areas.
“We shall continue to pray for Allah’s guidance and support for our gallant security personnel who risk their lives daily to protect our nation. But we must not make their job harder by introducing foreign complications,” the statement concluded.
The Ulama Forum’s position adds to growing public scrutiny over Nigeria’s foreign policy direction under President Tinubu, especially as the country battles multiple security and economic challenges.
