Kaduna-based social activist and whistleblower, Mahdi Shehu, has condemned recent remarks by Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Jingir in which Christians were described as “infidels.”
Shehu described the statement as reckless, insensitive and contrary to Islamic teachings, warning that such comments could further strain relations between Christians and Muslims in Northern Nigeria.
In a statement shared on Tuesday, Shehu accused Jingir of making what he described as “unguarded, inciting and reckless statements.”
The activist argued that the Quran refers to Christians as “Ahl al-Kitab,” or “People of the Book,” citing verses including Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:19, 5:59 and 5:68.
According to Shehu, describing Christians as infidels undermines efforts to promote peaceful coexistence between people of different faiths, particularly in a region where religious and communal tensions remain a sensitive issue.
He urged Christians who were offended by Jingir’s remarks not to generalise the comments to the wider Muslim community, stressing that the views of one cleric should not be taken as representative of millions of peaceful Muslims.
“Christians have the right to feel pained and react harshly,” Shehu said, while urging them to direct their anger at Jingir and those who share his position rather than at Muslims generally.
The activist also accused the cleric of making controversial statements for publicity and political patronage, although the allegation was presented as Shehu’s personal view.
The controversy comes amid growing calls from religious and community leaders for responsible public discourse and greater efforts to strengthen peaceful coexistence across Nigeria’s religious divide.
The comments have continued to generate reactions from Nigerians, with concerns being raised about the potential impact of inflammatory religious rhetoric on national unity and interfaith relations.
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