— What matters is justice, not whether leader is Muslim or Christian
ABUJA — The Grassroots Mobilisation Network (GMN), a support group of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has called on Nigerians to reject what it described as the divisive religious rhetoric attributed to Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, saying the North needs good governance and justice rather than a religiously based political platform.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja and signed by its Secretary-General, Usman Bala Idris, the group urged religious leaders to refrain from comments capable of undermining peace and social cohesion.
The statement followed remarks attributed to Jingir in Kano concerning Nigeria’s religious identity and the status of Christians.
GMN said the views attributed to Jingir should not be regarded as representing the position of all Muslims or Islam, describing them instead as his personal views.
“Islam is a religion of justice, fairness and the protection of the rights of all citizens. It does not preach hatred or claim superiority over others,” the statement said.
Idris also criticised the concept of a same-faith presidential ticket, describing it as potentially divisive in a religiously diverse country.
“A same-faith ticket is anti-people, anti-unity and against our divergent nature,” he said.
According to him, Muslims and Christians have coexisted for generations across the North and other parts of Nigeria, stressing that religion should not be exploited for political purposes.
“Nigeria, and particularly the North, is composed of Muslims and Christians who have coexisted for centuries. We must not allow politicians to exploit religion to divide us for political gains,” he said.
The group also called on political and religious stakeholders to caution against statements that could heighten religious tension.
GMN urged voters to prioritise competence, character and performance over religious identity when making electoral choices.
“What is important to the North is good governance, whether led by a Muslim or a Christian, provided it delivers justice, security, food and jobs for our people,” Idris said.
The organisation called on the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to encourage religious leaders to promote tolerance and avoid hate speech and divisive rhetoric.
GMN reaffirmed what it described as its commitment to inclusive governance, religious tolerance and political engagement focused on the welfare of Nigerians, particularly at the grassroots.
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