Nigeria not a Muslim country – Rev Dachomo counters Sheikh Jingir

Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations, COCIN, in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, has reacted to comments made by Islamic cleric, Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir that Nigeria is a Muslim country.

The controversial Islamic scholar, who made the remarks during a programme in Kano State over the weekend, had expressed his support for the continuation of a Muslim-Muslim political arrangement, arguing that Muslims constitute the majority and should have the opportunity to lead the country.

While speaking at the event, the Jos-based Islamic cleric had also referred to Christians in Nigeria as infidels, alluding that they were free to leave the country if they were not happy with the Muslim-Muslim arrangement.

But while reacting to the comments by Jingir in a statement on Tuesday, Rev. Dachomo insisted that Nigeria is not and can never be a Muslim country.

While vehemently opposing Jingir’s comments, the Christian cleric cautioned the Sheikh against making statements that could deepen religious divisions or create hostility between Muslims and Christians in the country.

He argued that the political leadership in Nigeria should not be determined by religious numerical claims, but by competence, justice, good governance and the ability of leaders to protect the lives and property of all citizens.

“Nigeria is a multi-religious country in which Muslims and Christians have historically participated in the political process and contributed to the development of the nation,” he said.

“I urge religious leaders to be mindful of their public statements, particularly when discussing politics and issues capable of affecting relations between different religious communities.

“Linking political leadership to religious majority could create a perception that one faith has greater ownership of the country than another,” Dachomo added.