Some ideas are dangerous not because they are unpopular, but because history has repeatedly shown where they lead.
One of those ideas is the belief that political power should be organized around religious dominance.
That is why the recent remarks attributed to Sheikh Yahaya Jingir deserve serious concern.
Reports indicate that the influential cleric defended the Muslim-Muslim ticket, portrayed electoral support as evidence of Muslim numerical superiority, referred to opponents as "infidels," and suggested that those uncomfortable with such arrangements should leave Nigeria. If accurately reported, such statements represent more than ordinary political advocacy; they reflect a troubling understanding of citizenship, democracy, and national belonging.
The question is not whether Sheikh Jingir has a constitutional right to political opinions. He does.
