The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called on the Federal Government to arrest and prosecute Islamic cleric Sheikh Yahaya Jingir over alleged hate speech and incitement.
The commission made the call amid heightened political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The NHRC said remarks attributed to Jingir raised concerns about hate speech and the potential for incitement, urging law enforcement authorities to take appropriate action.
The commission’s position was announced by its Executive Secretary, Tony Ojukwu, SAN, who condemned what it described as hateful and inflammatory rhetoric.
The development follows recent controversy surrounding comments attributed to Jingir concerning political participation and Muslim-Muslim tickets.
The commission’s intervention comes at a time when religious and political rhetoric has become increasingly prominent ahead of the 2027 elections.
The NHRC urged authorities to ensure that individuals whose statements potentially threaten peaceful coexistence and human rights are held accountable in accordance with the law.
The commission’s call does not itself amount to a finding of criminal guilt against Jingir; any prosecution would require due process and determination by the appropriate authorities and courts.
The controversy has generated significant public reaction, with politicians and commentators weighing in on the cleric’s remarks.