The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has condemned comments by Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir urging Muslims to support another Muslim–Muslim presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 elections.
Jingir, speaking at a mass wedding ceremony in Kano attended by Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf and Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi, also called on Muslims to “show the infidels their limit.” The remarks, captured on video, have since sparked concern and debate across the country.
In a statement, CHRICED described the comments as dangerous and divisive, stressing that the cleric does not speak for the majority of Nigerian Muslims.
The organisation argued that Nigerians are already facing severe economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and poverty, and said political leadership should be judged by competence, integrity and accountability rather than religious identity.
CHRICED also criticised the apparent silence of political leaders present at the event, warning that failing to condemn inflammatory rhetoric could encourage further religious division as the 2027 elections approach.
The group urged political and religious leaders to reject religious exclusion and called on Nigerians to demand leadership that promotes unity, equal citizenship and good governance.
“No religion owns Nigeria, and no Nigerian should ever be made to feel inferior or alienated because of their faith,” CHRICED said.
