The Grassroots Mobilization Network (GMN), a support group of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has urged Nigerians to reject the comments and ideology of Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, insisting that what the North needs is good governance anchored on justice rather than a religious ticket.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, the Secretary-General of the group, Usman Bala Idris, said religious leaders must refrain from making reckless comments capable of threatening the peace and tranquillity of the country.
The group was reacting to remarks allegedly made by Sheikh Jingir in Kano, in which he reportedly declared Muslims superior to Christians, referred to Christians as infidels and described Nigeria as a Muslim country.
Idris said Sheikh Jingir’s position did not represent Islam or Muslims but reflected his personal interest.
“Islam is a religion of justice, fairness and the protection of the rights of all citizens. It does not preach hatred or claim superiority over others,” he said.
He also condemned the advocacy of a same-faith presidential ticket, describing the Muslim-Muslim ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a threat to Nigeria’s unity and diversity.
“A same-faith ticket is anti-people, anti-unity and against our diverse nature,” Idris said.
“Nigeria, and particularly the North, is composed of Muslims and Christians who have coexisted for centuries. We must not allow politicians to exploit religion to divide us for political gains.”
The GMN Secretary-General appealed to patriotic Nigerians to call Sheikh Jingir to order over his comments.
“We appeal to all patriotic Nigerians to call APC’s Sheikh Jingir to order,” he said.
“Muslims stand for justice and not oppression, which the APC government represents.”
Idris urged voters to place greater emphasis on competence, character and the ability to deliver good governance rather than religious identity when choosing political leaders.
“Therefore, voters should reject Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir’s comments and ideology,” he said.
“What is important to the North is good governance, whether led by a Muslim or a Christian, provided it delivers justice, security, food and jobs for our people.”
The group also called on the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to caution religious clerics against hate speech and divisive sermons capable of deepening religious tensions in the country.
The GMN reaffirmed the ADC’s commitment to inclusive governance, religious tolerance and politics centred on the welfare and development of Nigerians at the grassroots.
