Sheikh Jingir's 'Infidels' Comment Sparks Fiery Outrage and Discrimination Claims

An escalating controversy has emerged following incendiary remarks made by Islamic cleric Sheikh Yahya Jingir, who referred to Christians as "infidels" and asserted that Nigeria belongs to Muslims, implying those who do not support a Muslim-Muslim ticket should leave the country. These comments, captured in a video circulating on social media and made during an event organized by Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS) attended by governors of Kano and Jigawa states, have drawn sharp condemnation from Christian leaders.

Prophet Isa El-Buba, the General Overseer of El-Buba Outreach Ministries, strongly criticized Sheikh Jingir, accusing him of fanning the flames of religious division at a critical time when northern Nigeria is struggling with severe issues such as insecurity, widespread poverty, banditry, drug abuse, criminality, and community displacement. El-Buba stressed that religious and political leaders bear the responsibility of fostering unity among Nigerians and collaboratively seeking solutions to the nation’s multifaceted challenges, rather than issuing statements that exacerbate religious tensions. Expressing a "very serious, heavy heart," El-Buba appealed to leaders, particularly as they mature, to prioritize peaceful coexistence. He directly challenged Jingir, questioning his conscience given the dire social problems in the North, stating, "You called Christians infidels? You mindless creature. Are you not ashamed? Are you not ashamed that banditry is here in the north? Criminality is here in the north. It is here in the north you have the highest level of drug addicts." He also highlighted his personal commitment to interfaith harmony, noting his support for thousands of Muslims across northern Nigeria, often without any personal or familial ties.

Adding to the chorus of condemnation, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, Chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA), stated that Sheikh Jingir’s controversial comments on the Muslim-Muslim ticket explicitly revealed the long-standing discrimination that Christians in Northern Nigeria have endured for decades. Hayab explained that these sentiments, often dismissed when concerns about persecution, marginalization, and religious dominance were raised, have now been brought into the open. He voiced particular concern that these divisive remarks were made publicly, with political leaders present who not only failed to immediately reject or rebuke them but were also observed cheering the preacher. Hayab lamented that Nigeria's previous pretense regarding allegations of Christian persecution and discrimination had effectively ended. He underscored that the core issue was not simply Muslims supporting Muslim candidates but rather the inflammatory language used against fellow Nigerians based on their faith. Hayab further argued that President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima’s Muslim-Muslim ticket in 2023 garnered support beyond only Muslim voters, including from Christian-majority states and communities, suggesting a broader base of acceptance than implied by Jingir’s divisive rhetoric.