NHRC demands Islamic cleric Sani Jingir's arrest over APC's Muslim-Muslim ticket remarks
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Nigeria has called for the arrest of Islamic cleric Sani Jingir for alleged hate speech regarding the APC's Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket. The cleric has defended his remarks, claiming they were intended to mobilize Muslim voters.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing tensions regarding the intersection of religion and politics in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 elections.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Tuesday called for the arrest of prominent Islamic cleric Sani Jingir over his remarks on the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket of the All Progressive Congress (APC).
NHRC’s Executive Secretary Tony Ojukwu made the call in a press statement, asking the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of the State Security Service (SSS) and other relevant authorities “to immediately arrest and prosecute Sheikh Yahaya Jingir for hate speech and incitement.”
He noted that Mr Jingir’s arrest will serve as an example to individuals who would want to exploit religion for political gain.
Mr Ojukwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, criticised Mr Jingir’s remarks, describing them as insensitive at a period the country is preparing for the 2027 general elections.
Mr Jingir made the remarks on Saturday at a mass wedding celebration organised and sponsored by the Kano State Government for 1,500 couples.
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