The Chairman of the Council of Ulama of the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa’ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, has declared that he has no regrets over controversial remarks he made during a recent sermon, insisting that his statements were made in response to earlier provocative comments.

Speaking to newsmen in Jos, Plateau State, the Islamic cleric addressed the widespread public reaction sparked by his preachings, maintaining that he was merely reacting to attacks initiated by other parties. Sheikh Jingir emphasized that his congregation and followers suffered significant verbal and emotional provocation before he decided to respond publicly, adding that he feels no remorse for defending his faith and community.

The cleric explained that religious leaders have a duty to speak out when they feel targeted or mistreated, noting that those criticising his posture failed to acknowledge the initial provocations that triggered his reaction.

According to him, the narrative being pushed in the media selectively ignores the background of the conflict and unfairly focuses solely on his response rather than the root cause. He reiterated that peace requires mutual respect and that harmony cannot be achieved when one group feels constantly undermined while expected to remain silent.

Sheikh Jingir’s uncompromising stance comes amid growing calls from various socio-political and religious groups urging religious figures across the country to exercise restraint and avoid inflaming sectarian tensions. Despite these warnings, the JIBWIS leader insisted that his followers were the aggrieved party in the ongoing discourse and insisted that true reconciliation can only occur when all parties are held equally accountable for their statements.

He urged his supporters to remain calm and steadfast while maintaining that he will continue to address issues affecting his followers directly and transparently, regardless of external pressure or criticism from political and social commentators.