Northern Christian Leader Defends Tinubu-Shettima Ticket

Rev. Joseph Hayab, the Chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA), asserted that President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima were not elected solely by Muslims during the 2023 general elections. This statement was made in response to Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, who defended the Muslim-Muslim ticket and suggested that Muslims should not apologize for supporting candidates of their faith.

Hayab emphasized that the Tinubu-Shettima ticket received significant support from Christian-majority states and communities. He criticized Jingir's derogatory remarks about Christians, calling them "infidels," and expressed concern over the lack of immediate rebuke from political leaders present during Jingir's comments.

Hayab highlighted ongoing issues of persecution and marginalization faced by Christians in the North, stating that the cleric's remarks reflected long-standing grievances. He called for understanding and unity among Nigerians, asserting that the pretense of unity in Nigeria had ended.