Former Kaduna Central senator Shehu Sani has criticised comments made by Reverend Ezekiel Dachomo in a viral video circulating online, describing the remarks as provocative and harmful to peace in Nigeria’s religiously sensitive environment.
Sani made the statement in a post on his official X account on Thursday, March 5, 2026, while reacting to the widely shared clip in which the cleric made controversial remarks about Islam during a protest over attacks on Christians in Plateau State.
In the video, Dachomo strongly criticised Islam and declared that Christians would never bow to Allah or convert to the religion, while also linking the phrase “Allahu Akbar” to extremist violence against Christians. The cleric, however, also said his Christian faith in Jesus Christ does not support killing.
Responding to the video, Sani said he had watched the clip but deliberately avoided repeating the cleric’s words because of their inflammatory nature.
“I watched the viral video of Rev Dachomo and don’t wish to quote what he said; but what he said is inflammatory, provocative and inconsistent with the teachings of the faith he professes,” Sani wrote.
The former lawmaker warned that such statements could heighten religious tension in a country already grappling with sectarian sensitivities.
“Inciting statements cross the lines of decency and peace in a religiously sensitive and fragile society like ours,” he said.
Sani emphasised that while individuals have the right to defend and promote their religious beliefs, doing so should not involve attacking or defaming the beliefs of others.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, is deeply divided along religious lines, with a largely Muslim north and predominantly Christian south. Religious leaders and political figures often caution against statements that could inflame tensions, particularly amid ongoing security challenges in parts of the country.