Former Kano governor Rabiu Kwankwaso on Monday criticised comments by Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, saying they promoted division at a critical time for Nigeria.
In a statement posted on his official X account, Kwankwaso said he was “deeply concerned” by the remarks made at an event in Kano over the weekend.
“At this critical moment in our nation’s history, statements that promote division and disunity must be firmly discouraged. It is particularly troubling to hear such rhetoric from a religious leader of Sheikh Jingir’s stature and influence,” he said.
Kwankwaso stressed that the people of Kano rejected the comments. “Let it be clearly stated: the good people of Kano do not endorse or support these divisive remarks.”
He urged political and religious leaders to prioritise truth, unity and reconciliation, warning against statements that could undermine national cohesion.
“Political and religious leaders alike carry a solemn responsibility to uphold truth, foster unity, and advance reconciliation. We must not lend our voices to utterances capable of undermining the very foundation of our nationhood,” Kwankwaso added.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, he said Nigerians would have the chance to reward good governance or reject poor performance at the polls, adding that the current administration had “earned the latter.”
Jingir’s comments, made in support of continued Muslim-Muslim presidential tickets, have drawn wider criticism for their potential to heighten religious tensions.
