Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, Chairman of the Izalatil Bid’a Wa’ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), has denied allegations that he is hostile towards Christians, saying his recent remarks were taken out of context.
Jingir made the clarification at a one-day national symposium in Jos, Plateau State, where he said he had been wrongly portrayed as anti-Christian following comments he made during a mass wedding organised by the Kano State Government for 1,500 couples.
The cleric explained that his remarks were not intended to incite hatred against Christians or other non-Muslims, stressing that Islam promotes fairness, justice and peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths.
“A lot of people are saying I dislike Christians. I didn’t say I dislike Christians. It is a lie. My remarks were misinterpreted,” Jingir said.
He added: “Leadership in Islam is not about cheating people of different faiths. Islam teaches us to share love with people of different faiths or sects.”
Speaking on the theme, “Enhanced Political Participation and Social Justice as a Panacea for Unity and Development in Nigeria,” Jingir said Muslims would be held accountable for any injustice committed against non-Muslims.
He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors and other political leaders to administer justice without discrimination based on religion, ethnicity or political affiliation.
“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 said.
Jingir also defended Nigerians’ right to support candidates of their choice during elections, saying, “Everyone has the right to vote for whoever he feels is okay with him to vote for during an election.”
The JIBWIS chairman urged Nigerians to promote peace and unity, warning that insecurity and division would undermine national development. “Without peace, there will be no development,” he said.
