Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has criticised Islamic cleric Sheikh Yahya Jingir over his renewed support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that religious rhetoric could deepen divisions in Nigeria.

Adeyanju, in a statement on Sunday, described Jingir’s comments as divisive and urged religious leaders to use their influence to promote peace and national unity.

He argued that Nigeria is a religiously diverse country and said political leadership should be assessed based on its impact on citizens rather than religious identity.

Adeyanju questioned whether the Muslim-Muslim ticket had improved Nigerians’ living conditions, addressed insecurity, reduced unemployment and inflation, or strengthened the country’s international standing.

He warned that rhetoric that pits Christians against Muslims could worsen existing divisions and called on clerics and politicians to respect Nigeria’s religious, cultural and ethnic diversity.

Jingir had renewed his advocacy for a Muslim-Muslim ticket at an event attended by some All Progressives Congress governors, including Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf and Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi. He also praised President Bola Tinubu for adopting the arrangement in the 2023 presidential election.

The cleric acknowledged that Christians and other religious groups opposed the arrangement but maintained that he had the right to campaign for candidates who share his faith.

The Muslim-Muslim ticket remains a major political issue ahead of the 2027 elections, with supporters arguing that competence and voters’ choice should take precedence over religious considerations, while critics say political representation should reflect Nigeria’s religious diversity.