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The Ulama Wing of the Conference of Islamic Organisations (CIO) has added its voice to the growing outcry over the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, condemning what it described as “ethnic cleansing” and a genocidal war against the Palestinian people.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos on Thursday, the Chairman of the Ulama Wing and National Missioner of Ansar-ud-Deen Society, Sheikh Abdur Rahman Ahmad, called on world powers to formally recognise the State of Palestine, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The clerics expressed deep concern over the scale of destruction and human suffering in Gaza, saying the global Muslim community must rise in unified condemnation of the atrocities being committed by Israeli forces.

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“The world watches in horror as Israeli occupation forces carry out what can only be described as a genocidal war on the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip.

“These statistics are not just numbers—they are human lives. Over 60,000 Palestinians have been killed, many others are buried under rubble, and nearly two million people have been displaced.

“Hospitals, schools, and critical infrastructure have been deliberately destroyed, aggravating an already dire humanitarian situation,” Sheikh Ahmad said.

Sheikh Ahmad said the crisis in Gaza is not a recent development but the culmination of decades of systemic oppression and dispossession of the Palestinian people.

Tracing the origins of the conflict, he cited the 1917 Balfour Declaration and the Nakba of 1948, during which over 750,000 Palestinians were forcibly displaced from their homes.

The Ulama also appealed to Muslim nations, especially those in the Arabian Gulf—including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan—to present a united front and break diplomatic silence on the ongoing violence.

“We urge these nations to set aside political differences and cease normalisation with the occupying power. The muted response from some quarters is perceived as betrayal and gives further license to the aggressor,” Sheikh Ahmad warned.

“Muslim nations must use their economic and political influence to mount pressure on Israel and its allies. Our moral obligation to stand with the oppressed is non-negotiable.”

Pressure Israel to accept two-state solution – Al-Mu’minaat

Also, prominent Muslim women’s organisation Al-Mu’minaat (The Believing Women) has called on the international community to take decisive action to end the Israeli assault on Gaza.

The group also urged global powers to pressure Israel into accepting a two-state solution that would guarantee lasting peace for both Palestinians and Israelis.

The call was made by the National Amira, Hajia Jelilat Abdulhamid, in a statement signed by the organisation’s Secretary, Hajia Hafsah Adesina.

“As mothers, wives and sisters, we feel the pain of the oppressed. We call on all peace-loving individuals and institutions to demand justice and humanity,” Hajia Jelilat said.

Her remarks came as Al-Mu’minaat unveiled its 30-year scorecard, marking three decades of committed service to Islam, women’s empowerment, and humanitarian causes.

The organisation expressed deep gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting it the resilience to remain steadfast in its mission to build strong and virtuous Muslim homes.

“Our comprehensive approach connects Islam with our members’ professional and family lives, creating a balanced and empowered Muslim woman,” Hajia Jelilat said.

As part of its 30th-anniversary celebration, the organisation has planned a series of activities from August to October, including soul-inspiring lectures, medical caravans, professional conferences, and award ceremonies to honour individuals who have distinguished themselves in the service of Islam.

The organisation currently operates 451 Tarbiyah (religious training) centres across Nigeria, aimed at fostering an ideal Muslim society capable of withstanding moral decline and challenging stereotypes surrounding Muslim women’s beliefs and dress codes.

In the area of education, Al-Mu’minaat established the Future Islamic Hope School, which provides quality Islamic and secular education for orphans and underprivileged children.

On the humanitarian front, the group has constructed six boreholes and deployed medical caravans to provide basic healthcare in underserved communities. Widows and orphans remain a key focus of its outreach.

Al-Mu’minaat is active in 18 Nigerian states, with international branches in the Benin Republic, the United Kingdom, and the United States.