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The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called on the Federal Government to arrest and prosecute prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Yahaya Jingir, over alleged hate speech and incitement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by its Executive Secretary, Chief Tony Ojukwu (SAN), the Commission condemned what it described as "hateful and inciting remarks" allegedly made by the cleric in a viral video circulated on Sunday.
According to the NHRC, Sheikh Jingir was seen advocating religiously exclusive politics while referring to non-Muslims as "infidels" and urging his followers to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to “show their limit.”
The Commission said the comments were inconsistent with the principles of equality, non-discrimination and peaceful coexistence enshrined in the 1999 Constitution and Nigeria's international human rights obligations.
It described the remarks as hate speech capable of fueling religious intolerance and violence, particularly as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections begin to gather momentum.
"The Commission finds these remarks to be hate speech and incitement to religious hatred and potential violence. At a time when we are preparing for another general election, such utterances are reckless and dangerous," the statement said.
It warned that inflammatory statements by influential religious and political figures could deepen divisions and threaten national peace if left unchecked.
"We cannot afford to look away. If we fail to speak and act now, we embolden both Christian and Muslim clerics and other influential persons to make worse statements in the coming months. That path leads only to crisis," the Commission added.
The NHRC therefore urged the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), and other relevant law enforcement agencies to investigate the matter and, where appropriate under the law, prosecute the cleric over the alleged offences.
It also appealed to religious leaders, traditional rulers and politicians to avoid divisive rhetoric capable of undermining national unity and the credibility of the electoral process.
The Commission further encouraged Nigerians to reject identity-based politics and instead assess political leaders on competence, service delivery and respect for human rights.
According to the NHRC, the enforcement of existing laws against hate speech should apply equally to all individuals, regardless of status or political affiliation, to serve as a deterrent against actions capable of inciting violence during the election period.
The Commission said it would continue to engage security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and civil society organisations to promote peaceful, inclusive and violence-free elections in 2027.
