Muslim-Muslim Ticket: Islamic cleric Jingir’s remarks trigger political backlash

Prominent Islamic cleric Sani Jingir has stirred controversy by advocating for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in Nigeria's upcoming 2027 general election. Speaking at a mass wedding event in Kano, sponsored by the state government, Jingir declared his continued support for the political arrangement that saw the APC's victory in 2023.

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I am one of those who raise the flag of Islam. I am calling on people to come and let us do Muslim-Muslim again.

"I am one of those who raise the flag of Islam," Jingir stated, urging Muslims to "come and let us do Muslim-Muslim again." He asserted Nigeria's status as a Muslim-majority nation and criticized those who opposed his view, adding, "I know this statement pains the unbelievers."

Jingir encouraged Muslims to prepare their voter's cards to "show the world that those unbelievers who claim they outnumber us in Nigeria are lying." He referenced the 2023 election outcome, saying, "When the votes were counted, Allah helped us, and we defeated them," and reaffirmed his commitment to the same ticket in 2027 with the rallying cry, "My vote is for Islam."

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I know this statement pains the unbelievers. I am a Muslim who preaches Islam. If I say Muslim-Muslim, what have I taken away from them?

The cleric's remarks have faced significant backlash from political figures who fear it could exacerbate Nigeria's deep-seated divisions. Former Kano State governor and African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, strongly condemned Jingir's divisive rhetoric. In a statement, Kwankwaso warned that such appeals to religious identity undermine national cohesion.

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So, here I am calling on you, please, everyone should get their votes ready. Let us show the world that those unbelievers who claim they outnumber us in Nigeria are lying.

"At this critical moment in our nation’s history, statements that promote division and disunity must be firmly discouraged," Kwankwaso said, emphasizing that the people of Kano do not endorse such sentiments. He urged leaders to exercise responsibility, promote truth, unity, and reconciliation, and suggested that the 2027 election should focus on political performance rather than religious affiliation.

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When the votes were counted, Allah helped us, and we defeated them.