Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The National Chairman of the Izalatil Bid'a Wa'ikamatis Sunnah, Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, has publicly dismissed widespread allegations that he harbours hatred for Christians, describing the claims as "mere lies" and a gross misinterpretation of his recent remarks. Speaking at a one-day national symposium with the theme, "Enhanced Political Participation and Social Justice as a Panacea for Unity and Development in Nigeria," held in Jos on Sunday, August 23, 2026, the influential Islamic cleric sought to clarify his position. His comments come on the heels of intense public criticism following statements he made at a mass wedding ceremony organised by the Kano State Government for 1,500 couples, which many Nigerians described as divisive along religious lines.
Addressing the controversy directly, Sheikh Jingir stated emphatically, "A lot of people are saying I dislike Christians. I didn't say I dislike Christians. It is a lie. My remarks were misinterpreted". He stressed that Islamic teachings do not permit discrimination against people of other faiths, asserting that "leadership in Islam is not about cheating people of different faiths. Islam teaches us to share love with people of different faiths or sects". The cleric further explained that Muslims would be held accountable on the Day of Judgement for any injustice committed against non-Muslims, and he cited the peaceful coexistence of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) with people of other faiths as a model for Nigerians to emulate.
Beyond his personal defence, Sheikh Jingir used the platform to deliver a powerful and direct message to the nation's political leadership. He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, and other political leaders to ensure fairness and justice in the discharge of their responsibilities, irrespective of the ethnic, religious or political affiliations of the people they govern. "I call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to cheat non-Muslims and Muslims alike," he declared. "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". His remarks serve as a significant intervention, urging the government to rise above partisan and sectarian considerations in its administration of the country.
The symposium, which attracted a host of political heavyweights including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi, and Sokoto State Governor Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, was organised to enlighten members on the need to participate wisely in the upcoming general election. Sheikh Jingir also defended the right of every Nigerian to freely choose and support any candidate of their choice during elections, stating, "Everyone has the right to vote for whoever he feels is okay with him to vote for during an election".
Concluding his address, the JIBWIS chairman urged Nigerians to embrace peace, unity and togetherness, warning that sustainable development could not be achieved in an atmosphere of insecurity and division. "Without peace, there will be no development," he said, calling on Nigerians to work towards strengthening peaceful coexistence among the various ethnic and religious groups in the country. His statement comes amid a backdrop of heightened religious tension, particularly following a recent call by a group for his arrest and prosecution over what they described as "hate speech". While he has denied harbouring ill will, the controversy surrounding his earlier comments, including his description of Christians as "infidels" and his unwavering support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in 2027, continues to cast a long shadow over his latest plea for unity and fairness.
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