Former Kano State Governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has criticised comments attributed to Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir in support of continuing the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Kwankwaso described the remarks as divisive and warned that statements of that nature could threaten national unity. He expressed his concerns in a statement posted on his official X account on Monday.
According to the former governor, religious leaders with significant influence have a responsibility to promote peace, unity and reconciliation, particularly at a time when the country is facing several social and political challenges.
Kwankwaso said he was particularly concerned that the remarks came from Jingir, whom he described as a respected and influential religious figure.
He also insisted that the people of Kano should not be portrayed as supporting the comments, saying the state’s residents have a responsibility, like other Nigerians, to promote national cohesion.
The former governor urged both political and religious leaders to be mindful of their public statements and avoid rhetoric that could deepen divisions among Nigerians.
Turning to the 2027 elections, Kwankwaso said Nigerians would have an opportunity to assess the performance of President Bola Tinubu’s administration and decide whether it deserves another term.
He argued that voters should use the election to reward effective governance and reject what they consider poor performance.
The comments come amid a growing debate over religion and political representation as parties and politicians begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
