The Youth Wing of the TEKAN/ECWA Fellowship has criticised remarks attributed to Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, describing them as divisive and capable of worsening religious tensions in Nigeria.
Speaking with journalists in Jalingo, the National TEKAN/ECWA Youth President, Bako Adashu Elijah, said Nigeria was a diverse country that belongs to every citizen, regardless of religious belief.
Elijah expressed particular concern over a viral video containing the cleric’s alleged remarks. He also questioned the response of some public figures who were reportedly present at the event, saying their apparent applause raised concerns about the acceptance of religiously divisive statements.
“We are deeply shocked, disappointed and outraged by the reckless, divisive and utterly unacceptable statement made by Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir,” Elijah said.
He described the alleged remarks as irresponsible religious rhetoric that could further strain an already sensitive national environment.
According to him, religious leaders and public officials have a responsibility to promote peace and tolerance rather than encourage divisions along religious lines.
Elijah recalled the 2023 general elections, noting that many Nigerian Christians supported the All Progressives Congress despite its Muslim Muslim presidential ticket because they believed the administration would deliver on its promises and promote national development.
He stressed that no religious group could claim exclusive ownership of Nigeria.
“Our message is simple. Nigeria does not belong to Muslims alone, and Nigeria does not belong to Christians alone. Nigeria belongs to all Nigerians,” he said.
The youth leader added that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to practise their faith, support any political party and participate fully in the affairs of the country.
However, he warned that freedom of religion should not be used as a justification for insulting, demonising or mobilising citizens against one another because of their faith.
Elijah also criticised what he described as the silence of the Federal Government and security agencies over the alleged comments. He urged the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force to investigate the matter.
He further called on Sheikh Jingir to withdraw the statement and apologise publicly, warning that failure to address inflammatory religious rhetoric could deepen mistrust and tension among Nigerians.
The TEKAN/ECWA youth leadership reaffirmed its commitment to religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence and a united Nigeria where citizens can live and participate in public life without discrimination based on their faith or political affiliation.
