"WHAT A BIG SHAME": PUBLIC OUTRAGE MOUNTS OVER SILENCE OF PRESIDENTIAL SPOKESPERSONS ON SHEIKH JINGIR’S DIVISIVE REMARKS

Public commentators, lawyers, and civic advocates have voiced sharp criticism over the continued silence of prominent presidential media aides following the inflammatory sectarian statements made by Jos-based Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir.

​In a viral public statement, legal practitioner Ekene Aninze, Esq., raised concerns over the absence of official commentary or condemnation from key government spokespersons and political commentators—including Bayo Onanuga, Reno Omokri, and Daniel Bwala—over 48 hours after the cleric’s controversial remarks regarding Christian political representation. Aninze noted that former Minister of Aviation Femi Fani-Kayode remained the sole prominent political figure to openly condemn the cleric's statement, contrasting the current silence with the rapid public pushback previously directed at respected Christian leader Cardinal John Onaiyekan over his political commentary.

​The public debate has drawn further reactions from civic observers, such as commentator John Great, who argued that the ongoing political climate and the joint-faith executive leadership structure reflect deep-seated religious dynamics that demand impartial accountability from government representatives and religious institutions across the country.

​"There was a time Reno used to call himself a pastor, but today he remains completely silent. Reno, Bwala, and Bayo were all quick to attack a well-respected personality in the Christian faith, Cardinal Onaiyekan, because they know there are no consequences. But now, it has been more than 48 hours since a man came out to rubbish their faith, and they are nowhere to be found. What a big shame!"

​Civic advocacy groups and legal professionals continue to demand consistent standards from public officials and media representatives, insisting that sectarian incitement and political hate speech must be confronted with equal authority regardless of religious or political affiliation to safeguard national unity.