APC Muslim-Muslim ticket: Cleric’s ‘infidels’ remark sparks condemnation

A controversial statement by Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Jingir, who referred to Christians as "infidels" while campaigning for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket, has drawn widespread condemnation. The remarks, made ahead of Nigeria's 2027 elections, have been criticized by prominent political figures and religious leaders.

Rabiu Kwankwaso, the vice presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress, stated that the people of Kano do not support such divisive rhetoric. Rev. Joseph Hayab, chairman of the Northern Christian Association, accused the cleric of highlighting the religious discrimination and marginalization faced by Christians in northern Nigeria for decades. Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju warned that the cleric's language could deepen religious divisions and jeopardize national unity.

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At this critical moment in our nation’s history, statements that promote division and disunity must be firmly discouraged. It is particularly troubling to hear such rhetoric from a religious leader of Sheikh Jingir’s stature and influence. Let it be clearly stated: the good people of Kano do not endorse or support these divisive remarks.

Jingir made his remarks at a political event organized by Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatus Sunnah in Kano. The gathering was attended by state governors and other political figures. In a video circulating online, Jingir praised President Bola Tinubu for adopting a Muslim-Muslim arrangement in the 2023 election and urged Muslims to unite and leverage their numbers for political gain.

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I am among the staunch advocates of the Muslim-Muslim ticket, and I call on you to come together for a Muslim-Muslim ticket.

He acknowledged opposition to the Muslim-Muslim ticket but questioned if advocating for it was wrong. "Have I stopped the Christians from their own slogans? Have I stopped traditionalists from a similar campaign?" he asked. He reiterated his stance, saying, "But as a Muslim, I repeat it, Muslim-Muslim! No going back on this." He then urged Muslims to "show the infidels their limit, who claims they are more populous than us in Nigeria. They are lying."

Kwankwaso expressed deep concern, stating on X (formerly Twitter) that "statements that promote division and disunity must be firmly discouraged." He added, "It is particularly troubling to hear such rhetoric from a religious leader of Sheikh Jingir’s stature and influence." He emphasized that political and religious leaders have a responsibility to foster unity and reconciliation.

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I urge all of us here to go and get our voters’ cards ready. Let’s show the infidels their limit, who claims they are more populous than us in Nigeria. They are lying.