The Rasulul A’azam Foundation (RAAF), a Shi’a group based in Kano and comprising followers of the Ahlul Baiti tradition of the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.), has appealed to the Kano state government to include it in the upcoming religious debate with cleric Malam Lawan Triumph, to be organized by the state’s Shura Council.

The delegation, led by the head of RAAF’s Tabligh Department, Sheikh Bashir Lawan Kano, on Thursday, paid a courtesy visit to the Secretary to the Kano State Government, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, where it tabled key concerns and demands.

Sheikh Bashir explained that RAAF’s participation in the debate was crucial, given the group’s influence and role in propagating religious messages in Kano State. He, however, criticized what he described as the deliberate marginalization of Shi’a adherents in matters of governance and religious affairs in the state—warning that such exclusion undermines peace and unity.

The foundation also called on the government to ensure Malam Lawan faces justice over alleged derogatory remarks against the Prophet, while urging that the ongoing trial of Sheikh Abduljabbar Nasiru Kabara be allowed to proceed without political or governmental interference.

In addition, Sheikh Bashir accused the former administration of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje of fueling division by favoring certain religious groups over others, a development he said destabilized the religious balance in the state.

He further emphasized that Shi’a followers played a significant role in the emergence of the current Kano government during the last election, insisting that they equally deserve recognition and inclusion in political and religious decision-making platforms.

RAAF therefore urged the state government to uphold fairness and justice among all religious groups in Kano.