Islamic cleric and leader of the Izala Scholars Council, Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, has defended his support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 elections.
Jingir said he had no regret over his recent comments despite the criticism that trailed his declaration.
The cleric, who spoke in an interview with BBC Hausa on Wednesday, said his position was not politically motivated or aimed at campaigning for President Bola Tinubu.
He explained that his support for a Muslim-Muslim ticket was based on his responsibility and convictions as a Muslim.
Jingir said he would continue to support and encourage Muslims to back the arrangement regardless of the criticism it attracted.
He said he decided to support the ticket after Tinubu emerged with a Muslim running mate in the 2023 presidential election.
The cleric also maintained that, as a Muslim preacher, he had the right to advocate a political arrangement that aligned with his religious beliefs.
Jingir had expressed his support for a Muslim-Muslim ticket during a religious event in Kano State.
He urged Muslims to vote in a manner that would demonstrate their numerical strength in the country.
The cleric also challenged claims that Christians or other religious groups were more numerous than Muslims in Nigeria.
His comments have continued to generate reactions, with critics describing the position as divisive, while others have defended his right to express his views.
