The Chairman of Izalatil Bid’a Wa’ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, has denied allegations that he dislikes Christians, describing the claims as false and a misinterpretation of his recent remarks.
Jingir came under criticism following comments he made at a mass wedding organised by the Kano State Government for 1,500 couples, which some observers described as divisive along religious lines.
Speaking at a one-day national symposium in Jos on Sunday, the cleric said his remarks were not intended to express hatred towards Christians.
“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 said.
The symposium, themed “Enhanced Political Participation and Social Justice as a Panacea for Unity and Development,” was organised by the JIBWIS headquarters to enlighten its members ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Jingir explained that Islamic leadership does not permit Muslims to cheat or oppress people of other faiths, stressing that Islam teaches love and fairness towards people regardless of their religious background.
He said any Muslim who cheats a non-Muslim would be held accountable on the Day of Judgement, adding that Prophet Muhammad lived peacefully with people of other faiths.
The cleric therefore called on President Bola Tinubu, state governors and other political leaders to ensure fairness and justice for all Nigerians, irrespective of their ethnic, religious or political affiliations.
Jingir also maintained that every Nigerian has the right to freely choose a preferred candidate during elections.
He urged Nigerians to reject religious and ethnic divisions and embrace peace, unity and justice as the country approaches the 2027 elections.
The symposium was attended by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and Governors Mai Mala Buni of Yobe, Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano, Umar Namadi of Jigawa and Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto, among other political and religious leaders.
