I don’t hate Christians, ensure fairness for all, Sheik Jingir tells Tinubu

The Chairman of Izalatil Bid’a Wa’ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, has dismissed allegations that he dislikes Christians, describing the claims as lies and a misinterpretation of his recent remarks.

The Islamic cleric faced public criticism following comments made at a mass wedding ceremony organized by the Kano State government for 1,500 couples, which critics labeled as religiously divisive.

Speaking at a one-day national symposium titled “Enhanced Political Participation and Social Justice as a Panacea for Unity and Development in Nigeria” in Jos, Jingir clarified that his remarks were not intended to express hatred toward Christians or non-Muslims.

“A lot of people are saying I dislike Christians. I didn’t say I dislike Christians—it is a lie. My remarks were misinterpreted. 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.

Jingir emphasized that Islam mandates fairness and justice regardless of religious affiliation, noting that Muslims will be held accountable for any injustice committed against non-Muslims. He highlighted that Prophet Muhammad lived peacefully alongside people of other faiths and urged Nigerians to foster peaceful coexistence.

The cleric also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, and political leaders to govern with equity.

“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 stated.

He added that every citizen maintains the right to freely support and vote for any candidate of their choice. “Everyone has the right to vote for whoever he feels is okay with him to vote for during an election,” Jingir said, concluding with a call for national unity, warning that sustainable development cannot occur amid insecurity and division.