I Support Muslim-Muslim Ticket Because Tinubu Is Working — Jingir

Islamic scholar Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir has defended his support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket, saying his position is based on his assessment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Jingir spoke on Saturday at the Northern Muslims Intellectuals Forum in Jigawa State, where he addressed controversy surrounding comments he recently made during a visit to Kano.

The cleric said his advocacy for a Muslim-Muslim ticket had attracted opposition from some Nigerians, prompting him to acknowledge the need for further engagement and explanation.

“When I went to Kano, I said Muslim-Muslim, but it turned out that some people did not like it,” Jingir said.

He explained that the reaction to his comments had convinced him that more effort was required to communicate his position to the public.

“I said we still have work to do, so I will call the scholars to come and intensify our preaching,” he added.

Jingir’s comments come amid renewed political debate over religious balancing ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Muslim-Muslim ticket remains a contentious issue in Nigeria, with supporters arguing that political competence and effective governance should take precedence over religious considerations.

Critics, however, have continued to raise concerns about religious representation and inclusivity in a country with a large Christian and Muslim population.

Jingir maintained that his position was not simply about religious identity but was connected to his assessment of governance under the Tinubu administration.

He expressed support for continuing with a political arrangement that he believes is producing results and advancing development.

The cleric’s remarks are likely to fuel further discussions among religious and political stakeholders as parties and political movements begin positioning themselves for the 2027 presidential election.

The debate over the appropriate balance between religion, political competence and national unity is expected to remain a significant issue during the election cycle.

Jingir’s call for scholars to intensify public engagement also suggests that religious leaders supporting the arrangement may seek to mobilise wider understanding and acceptance of their position ahead of the election.

With political activities already increasing, the Muslim-Muslim ticket debate is expected to generate further reactions from political parties, religious organisations and civil society groups across the country.