Chairman of Izalatil Bid’a Wa’ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), Sheik Sani Yahaya Jingir, has denied the claim that he does not like Christians, describing the reports as “mere allegations.”
According to Sheik Jingir, his remarks at a mass wedding ceremony organised by the Kano State Government for 1,500 couples were not meant to express dislike against Christians or non-Muslims.
The Islamic cleric came under criticism after his remarks, which some described as divisive along religious lines.
- APC National Chairman Holds Closed-Door Meeting With Kano Emir Sanusi
- Kwankwaso Mourns Sokoto Boat Accident Victims, Calls for Investigation
Speaking on Sunday during a One-Day National Symposium with the theme “Enhanced Political Participation and Social Justice as a Panacea for Unity and Development in Nigeria,” held in Jos, Sheik Jingir said his remarks were not meant to express hatred toward 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. Leadership in Islam is not about cheating people of different faiths. Islam teaches us to share love with people of different faiths or sects,” Sheik Jingir said.
The Islamic cleric further explained that Islam stresses that any Muslim who cheats a non-Muslim will be questioned on the Day of Judgement, adding that Prophet Muhammad (SAW) lived peacefully with non-Muslims.
Reaffirming the Islamic teaching of equity in leadership, the cleric called on President Bola Tinubu, governors, and other leaders across all positions to be fair and just to all and sundry, irrespective of their ethno-religious background.
“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.
He maintained that every Nigerian has the right to freely choose and support a candidate of their choice during elections.
“Everyone has the right to vote for whoever he feels is okay with him to vote for during an election, “ he said.
The Islamic Cleric, however, called on Nigerians to embrace peace, unity and togetherness, saying without peace there would be no development.
