The Chairman of the Izalatil Bid’a Wa’ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, has dismissed claims that he dislikes Christians, describing the allegations as “mere lies” and a misinterpretation of his recent remarks.

Jingir came under criticism following comments he made at a mass wedding ceremony organised by the Kano State Government for 1,500 couples, which some Nigerians described as divisive along religious lines.

However, speaking at a one-day national symposium in Jos on enhanced political participation and social justice, the cleric said his remarks were not intended to express hatred towards Christians or non-Muslims.

“A lot of people are saying I dislike Christians. I didn’t say I dislike Christians. It is a lie. My remarks were misinterpreted,” he said.

Jingir said Islam promotes fairness, justice and peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths.

“Leadership in Islam is not about cheating people of different faiths. Islam teaches us to share love with people of different faiths or sects,” he added.

He noted that Muslims would be accountable for any injustice committed against non-Muslims, adding that Prophet Muhammad lived peacefully with people of other faiths.

The cleric urged President Bola Tinubu, state governors and other political leaders to govern with fairness and justice, irrespective of the ethnic, religious or political affiliations of the people they lead.

“I call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to cheat non-Muslims and Muslims alike. I also call on you not to cheat those who are not in the same political party with you. You should lead with justice and fairness to all Nigerians,” he said.

Jingir also maintained that every Nigerian had the right to freely choose and support any candidate of their choice during elections.

“Everyone has the right to vote for whoever he feels is okay with him to vote for during an election,” he said.

The JIBWIS chairman urged Nigerians to embrace peace, unity and togetherness, stressing that sustainable development could not be achieved in an atmosphere of insecurity and division.

“Without peace, there will be no development,” he said, calling on Nigerians to strengthen peaceful coexistence among the country’s diverse ethnic and religious groups.