The Christian Association of Nigeria in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory has condemned an Islamic cleric for referring to non-Muslims as “infidels” while urging support for Muslim-Muslim political tickets.
Rev. John Hayab, the regional CAN chairman, described the comment by Sheikh Sona Jingir as offensive and capable of heightening religious tension in the country. He spoke in a Channels Television interview reacting to a video of the cleric’s remarks.
Jingir had called on Muslims to obtain Permanent Voter Cards and back same-faith tickets, saying such votes would show “the infidels” that Muslims form the majority. The comments were made at a gathering attended by three governors.
“The man did not say it in his room; he said it in the presence of three governors, and they were all smiling. This is an action that should have been rebuked instantly,” Hayab said.
He stressed that CAN does not oppose Muslims supporting a Muslim candidate on the basis of political or personal qualities. However, he said using derogatory religious language against Christians was unacceptable and risked encouraging hatred.
Hayab urged the government to address inflammatory religious statements, warning that silence could undermine national unity. “We must call out people like Jingir and the man in Kano who wants to sack every Christian. We must call them out so the government can act responsibly,” he added.
Prof. Ahmad Suleiman, of the Ambassadors of Peace and Social Welfare Initiative, also criticised the remarks as contrary to Islamic teachings. “Even if you want to campaign for a Muslim, campaign for him as a person, but do not campaign against a Christian,” he said.
The controversy arises amid renewed debate over Muslim-Muslim tickets ahead of future elections, an issue that has remained sensitive since the All Progressives Congress adopted one for the 2023 presidential poll.
