The Chairman of the Izalatil Bid’a Wa’ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, has denied allegations that he harbours hatred towards Christians, describing such claims as “mere lies” and a misinterpretation of his recent comments.

Jingir made the clarification on Sunday at a One-Day National Symposium in Jos, Plateau State, themed “Enhanced Political Participation and Social Justice as a Panacea for Unity and Development in Nigeria.” The Islamic cleric had recently faced criticism over his support for the Muslim-Muslim ticket and his reference to Christians as infidels.

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Addressing the controversy, Jingir said his comments were not intended to promote hatred or discrimination against Christians or other non-Muslims.

He said, “A lot of people are saying I dislike Christians. I didn’t say I dislike Christians. It is a lie. My remarks were misinterpreted.

“Leadership in Islam is not about cheating people of different faiths. Islam teaches us to share love with people of different faiths or sects.”

The cleric said Islamic teachings require Muslims to treat people of other faiths with fairness, justice and compassion, warning that Muslims would be held accountable for harming non-Muslims.

He also cited the example of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), whom he said lived peacefully with people of different faiths, and urged Nigerians to promote peaceful coexistence regardless of religious differences.

Jingir further appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors and other political leaders to govern with fairness and justice, irrespective of religious or political affiliation.

“I call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to cheat non-Muslims and Muslims alike. I also call on you not to cheat those who are not in the same political party with you. You should lead with justice and fairness to all Nigerians,” he said.

The JIBWIS chairman also maintained that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to support and vote for any candidate of their choice during elections.

“Everyone has the right to vote for whoever he feels is okay with him to vote for during an election,” he added.