In a shocking and controversial statement that has ignited a firestorm of debate across social media, an influential Islamic cleric and the National Chairman of the Council of Ulama, Dr. Ibrahim Jalingo, has publicly declared his endorsement of the death penalty for individuals who renounce their religion.
The revelation was made via a post by Nigerian Stories on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, stating:
“BREAKING: An Islamic cleric and the National Chairman of the Council of Ulama, Dr. Ibrahim Jalingo, has endorsed death penalty for religious faithful who renounce their religion.”
Dr. Jalingo’s pronouncement has since sparked nationwide outrage, drawing fierce criticism from human rights activists, civil society groups, and religious freedom advocates who argue that such views are not only unconstitutional but dangerously regressive in a pluralistic society like Nigeria.
While some conservative religious supporters have defended the cleric’s position as being rooted in traditional interpretations of religious law, many Nigerians have condemned it as an open call for religious persecution and a threat to fundamental human rights.
Analysts warn that such extremist rhetoric could further inflame religious tensions in a country already grappling with sectarian violence and intolerance.
What’s your take on this? Do you believe religious freedom should be absolute, or should apostasy carry severe consequences in a religious society like Nigeria? Join the conversation.
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