Sheikh Jingir Denies Anti-Christian Claims, Urges Tinubu, Governors to Govern Fairly

JOS — Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, Chairman of the Izalatil Bid’a Wa’ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), has rejected allegations that he harbours hatred for Christians, insisting that his recent comments were misinterpreted.

Jingir came under criticism after remarks he made at a Kano State Government-sponsored mass wedding involving 1,500 couples were interpreted by some Nigerians as divisive and directed against other religious groups.

But addressing participants at a One-Day National Symposium in Jos yesterday, Jingir said he had never stated that he disliked Christians.

The symposium was held under the theme, “Enhanced Political Participation and Social Justice as a Panacea for Unity and Development in Nigeria.”

“A lot of people are saying I dislike Christians. I didn’t say I dislike Christians. It is a lie. My remarks were misinterpreted,” Jingir said.

He maintained that Islamic teachings require fairness, justice and love towards people of different faiths and sects.

“Leadership in Islam is not about cheating people of different faiths. Islam teaches us to share love with people of different faiths or sects,” he said.

According to the cleric, Muslims would be accountable for acts of injustice against non-Muslims, adding that Prophet Muhammad (SAW) demonstrated peaceful coexistence with people of other faiths.

Jingir consequently appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, governors and other political leaders to govern fairly and without discrimination based on religion, ethnicity or political affiliation.

“I call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to cheat non-Muslims and Muslims alike. I also call on you not to cheat those who are not in the same political party with you. You should lead with justice and fairness to all Nigerians,” he said.

The JIBWIS leader also defended the right of Nigerians to freely choose their preferred candidates during elections.

“Everyone has the right to vote for whoever he feels is okay with him to vote for during an election,” he said.

Jingir urged Nigerians to prioritise peace, unity and national togetherness, warning that insecurity and division would undermine development.

“Without peace, there will be no development,” he said, urging citizens to work towards stronger peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s different ethnic and religious communities.

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