Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the vice presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has publicly condemned recent remarks attributed to Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, calling them divisive and a threat to national unity. In a statement posted on his Facebook page on Monday, Kwankwaso expressed deep concern over comments made by Jingir during a mass wedding event organized by the Kano State government over the weekend.
Cleric’s Remarks Spark Outrage
In a viral video from the event, Jingir reportedly claimed that Nigeria is an Islamic state and that the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket is now a permanent feature. He also allegedly blamed Christians for a mosque bombing in Kano that resulted in numerous casualties. These statements have drawn sharp reactions from both Christian and Muslim communities, with many warning that such rhetoric could deepen religious divisions and provoke crisis.
Kwankwaso’s Response
Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, said the country is at a critical juncture and cannot afford statements that promote division. He stressed that the people of Kano do not support or endorse the cleric’s remarks. “Let it be clearly stated: the good people of Kano do not endorse or support these divisive remarks,” he said.
He also urged political and religious leaders to exercise responsibility in their public statements, emphasizing the need to promote truth, unity, and reconciliation. “Political and religious leaders alike carry a solemn responsibility to uphold truth, foster unity, and advance reconciliation,” Kwankwaso added.
Looking Ahead to 2027
Kwankwaso linked the controversy to the upcoming 2027 general elections, saying they will give Nigerians a chance to evaluate the current administration’s performance. He said voters will have the opportunity to reward good governance and reject poor performance at the polls. “The 2027 general elections will be an opportunity for Nigerians to reward good governance with resounding support and to reject poor performance at the polls. This administration has earned the latter,” he stated.
Context and Implications
The cleric’s remarks come at a time when religious tensions in Nigeria are already heightened. The Kano State government’s mass wedding program, which was intended as a social welfare initiative, has inadvertently become a flashpoint for religious and political controversy. Kwankwaso’s condemnation reflects broader concerns among political leaders about the potential for inflammatory rhetoric to undermine national cohesion, especially as the country approaches another election cycle.
While the cleric has not publicly responded to the backlash, the incident underscores the delicate balance religious leaders must maintain in a multi-faith society like Nigeria. The NDC vice presidential candidate’s call for responsible leadership is likely to resonate with many Nigerians who fear that such statements could exacerbate existing divisions.