Fani-Kayode Critiques Jingir's Muslim-Muslim Ticket Support

Femi Fani-Kayode, Nigeria’s Ambassador-designate to South Africa, condemned comments made by Islamic cleric Sheikh Yahya Jingir regarding a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket for the 2027 elections, labeling them as "highly provocative." Jingir, at an event attended by All Progressives Congress (APC) governors including Kano Governor Abba Yusuf and Jigawa Governor Umar Namadi, urged Muslims to support the Muslim-Muslim ticket, praising President Bola Tinubu for his role in the 2023 election. He acknowledged opposition from Christians and other religious groups but questioned the validity of his advocacy.

Fani-Kayode expressed respect for Jingir but disagreed with his "extremist rhetoric," asserting that Nigeria is a secular and multi-religious state. He clarified that his support for a Muslim-Muslim ticket is based on the candidates' qualities rather than their religious identity, emphasizing that Nigeria could also consider a Christian-Christian ticket if suitable candidates arise.