Kwankwaso Condemns Jingir’s Remarks, Says Divisive Comments Threaten National Unity
Former Kano State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) vice presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has condemned remarks attributed to Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, describing them as divisive and capable of threatening national unity.
Kwankwaso made his position known in a statement on Monday while reacting to comments made by Jingir at an event in Kano over the weekend.
The former governor said statements capable of promoting division and disunity should be discouraged, particularly at what he described as a critical period in Nigeria’s history.
“I am deeply concerned by the comments made by Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir at an event in Kano this weekend,” Kwankwaso said.
He expressed concern that the remarks came from a religious leader with significant influence, stressing that political and religious figures have a responsibility to promote unity and reconciliation.
“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 also stated that the people of Kano did not support what he described as divisive comments.
“Let it be clearly stated: the good people of Kano do not endorse or support these divisive remarks,” he said.
He urged political and religious leaders to uphold truth and promote national cohesion, warning against utterances that could undermine Nigeria’s unity.
“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 said.
Turning to the 2027 general elections, the former governor said the polls would give Nigerians an opportunity to assess the performance of the current administration and decide whether it deserves another vote.
“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 said.
Kwankwaso, who contested the 2023 presidential election on the platform of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), remains a prominent political figure in Kano and the northern region.
His comments come amid increasing political activities ahead of the 2027 elections, with political parties and their leading figures already positioning themselves for the forthcoming contest.
The former governor ended his statement with a prayer for Nigeria, saying, “God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The remarks followed comments by Jingir, who reportedly intensified his advocacy for Muslim-Muslim presidential tickets and urged Muslims in Kano to support candidates who favour the arrangement and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of future elections.
Jingir acknowledged opposition to the idea from Christians and other religious groups but questioned whether advocating for a Muslim-Muslim ticket was wrong.
“I am aware that the infidels are embittered by this word. However, are there no Christians alike? Are there no Jews? Are there no traditionalists? Have I done anything wrong by merely campaigning for a Muslim-Muslim ticket?” he said.
