CCN Condemns Jingir’s ‘Infidels’ Remark, Calls for Religious Restraint

Religion

By Uruakpa Onyemaechi Charles, Abuja

ABUJA, Nigeria | August 15, 2026 — The Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) has condemned remarks attributed to the National Chairman of the Council of Ulama of JIBWIS, Sheikh Yahaya Jingir, in which he reportedly referred to Christians as “infidels” and made comments about the religious composition of Nigeria.

In a press statement signed by the General Secretary of CCN, Rt. Rev. Evans Onyemara, Ph.D., the Council described the remarks as reckless and divisive, warning that such language could deepen religious distrust and threaten peaceful coexistence in the country.

The Council said religious leaders have a responsibility to use their platforms to promote peace, mutual respect and national unity, particularly as Nigeria approaches another election season.

CCN Cites Constitutional Religious Freedom

The Christian Council of Nigeria stressed that Nigeria is a multi-religious nation and that the 1999 Constitution guarantees freedom of religion under Section 38.

The Council urged all religious leaders to respect the rights and dignity of citizens of other faiths and avoid statements that could inflame religious tensions.

CCN also called on the leadership of the Muslim Ummah to caution Sheikh Jingir and encourage responsible public engagement.

Call for Religious Restraint

The Council urged Christian and Muslim leaders to exercise restraint and reject inflammatory rhetoric.

It maintained that religious differences should not become a source of division, stressing that Nigeria’s peace requires cooperation among its diverse faith communities.

“An eye for an eye can only create a community of blind people.”

The CCN reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence and said it would continue to pursue dialogue, justice and lawful means to protect the dignity and rights of its members.

The statement was dated August 15, 2026, and signed by Rt. Rev. Evans Onyemara, Ph.D., General Secretary, Christian Council of Nigeria