Electoral infidels!, By Wole Olaoye

The article sharply criticizes religious and political figures who incite division and violence, labeling them "infidels" against the universal brotherhood of humankind and secular Nigeria. It specifically targets Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir and Senator Francis Fadahunsi, suggesting they fit this description due to their rhetoric and actions.

Sheikh Yahaya Jingir, the National Chairman of the Council of Ulama of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah, is highlighted for his divisive sermons. As a leader of a major Salafi Islamic organization in Northern Nigeria, his pronouncements carry significant weight. However, his career is marked by controversies over sectarian dogma and polarizing rhetoric, including targeting Sufi and Shia Muslims with strict fatwas and using exclusionary language like 'Kafir' against non-Muslims.

Jingir's sermons often urge Muslims to vote strictly along religious lines, a practice that exacerbates ethno-religious tensions in his home base of Jos. Human rights organizations, including the National Human Rights Commission, have condemned such electoral sermons as hate speech and incitement, violating constitutional guarantees against religious discrimination. The author questions Jingir's competence on global issues, suggesting a narrow worldview.

The piece contrasts this divisive behavior with the ideal of true leadership, paraphrasing Oscar Hammerstein II to suggest elders should inspire younger generations to pursue their dreams. The author posits that anyone against universal brotherhood and secularism, or who advocates for bloodshed in politics, is an infidel. The article implies that both Jingir and Fadahunsi fall into this category, urging introspection rather than prosecution, though the latter is unlikely.