Bashir Ahmad, a former presidential aide, has urged security operatives to take action against an Islamic cleric who threatened to kill the wife of the President, Remi Tinubu. The cleric had stated that Remi Tinubu, being a leader of infidels, deserves to be killed by Muslims.
Ahmad believes that such views expressed by the Islamic cleric deviate from the core principles of Islam. He said, “Our religion teaches us to live peacefully with others. The Quran and Hadith emphasize respect, tolerance, and kindness towards all individuals, regardless of their faith or background.”
He further added that Islam advocates for peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and understanding among diverse communities. He reminded that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), throughout his lifetime, lived peacefully alongside people of varying faiths. He cited a widely known Hadith in which the Prophet (PBUH) graciously permitted a delegation of Christians from Najran to conduct their worship within his mosque.
Ahmad expressed his hope that the Islamic cleric in question will be invited for questioning by the authorities. He emphasised the need for respect and tolerance in religious matters, particularly given that Remi Tinubu, the wife of the Nigerian leader, is a Christian and an ordained pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Remi Tinubu's ordination took place in 2018 at the Old Arena of RCCG, Lagos/Ibadan Expressway where the church held its 66th annual convention themed “Dominion”. Her faith and position in the church highlight the diversity and religious tolerance that should be upheld in the nation.