Sheikh Yahaya Jingir defends remarks, rejects calls for his arrest
Sheikh Yahaya Jingir defends remarks, rejects calls for his arrest
Islamic cleric Sheikh Yahaya Jingir has defended his recent remarks at a mass wedding organised by the Kano State Government, dismissing calls for his arrest and prosecution over alleged inflammatory comments.
Jingir made the remarks during an interview with BBC Hausa, following controversy surrounding statements he made at the mass wedding involving about 1,500 couples.
The Kano State Government reportedly spent about ₦1.5 billion on the mass wedding, which attracted religious and political figures.
The cleric had faced criticism from individuals and organisations, including human rights advocates, who accused him of making statements capable of aggravating religious tensions after referring to Christians as “Kafir” and “Arna.”
Responding to questions about his political position, particularly his support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket, Jingir said he was not campaigning for any particular politician.
He said his position was motivated by his desire to promote Islam and see the religion grow and gain greater influence.
Asked about calls for his arrest and prosecution, Jingir rejected the criticism, saying those calling for his arrest were mainly Christians rather than human rights organisations.
He argued that he had the constitutional right to support and vote for any political candidate of his choice.
Jingir also maintained that he enjoys significant support among Muslims because, according to him, he speaks openly about views shared by many members of the Muslim community.
He said the reaction from some attendees at the Kano event demonstrated the level of support for his position and insisted that he would continue advocating for a Muslim-Muslim political ticket.
His comments have further fuelled debate over religious rhetoric, political alliances and the need for tolerance ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The controversy comes amid heightened political discussions over the possibility of another Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket and concerns about the impact of religious rhetoric on Nigeria’s already sensitive interfaith relations.
