Jingir’s comments reveal reality of discrimination against northern Christians – Hayab

The Chairman of the Northern Christian Association, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, has revealed that controversial remarks made by Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir have exposed the discrimination and persecution that Christians in Northern Nigeria have faced for decades. Jingir defended President Tinubu's Muslim-Muslim ticket in a gathering in Kano, stating that Muslims should not apologize for supporting candidates of their faith due to their population and popularity.

In a video from the event, Jingir referred to Christians as "infidels" and urged Muslims to unite, emphasizing their numerical strength and political influence.

Hayab, speaking on Channels Television's Morning Brief, commented that the comments brought to light the sentiments that Christians in the North have experienced for years but were often dismissed when concerns about religious persecution and marginalization were raised. He expressed frustration that political leaders present at the event did not immediately reject or rebuke Jingir's remarks, instead appearing to support the preacher.

Hayab lamented that Nigeria's previous pretense of unity, co-citizenship, and equality for all citizens had come to an end.

The controversy surrounding Jingir's remarks was not merely about Muslim voters supporting Muslim candidates, but about the language used to address fellow Nigerians based on their faith. The comments, according to Hayab, expose the hidden religious biases that have persisted in Nigeria for decades, with Christians in the North aware of these prejudices and their impact on their communities.