Christians in Nasarawa State have accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of systematic political marginalisation.
The Integrity Youth Alliance, a Christian group, expressed deep concern over the outcome of the APC’s recent primaries, which it alleged was manipulated in favour of Muslim aspirants at the expense of qualified Christian politicians.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Danjuma Lamido, the group noted that Nasarawa State has a significant Christian population and has historically witnessed strong Christian political participation.
“From the outcomes so far, the party’s governorship candidate is a Muslim, while all three senatorial candidates that emerged from the process are also Muslims,” the statement said.
The group said the development has caused widespread resentment among Christian stakeholders, who believe fairness, inclusion, and religious balance have been sacrificed.
Lamido cited the disqualification of Mrs. Angela Aya Bako, a respected female aspirant for the Nasarawa North Senatorial District by-election, without any clear reason.
He also pointed to the replacement of the state Deputy Governor, Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe, a Christian, with Abubakar Nalaraba, a Muslim, as the senatorial candidate for the Nasarawa South Constituency.
The Integrity Youth Alliance warned that the perceived imbalance could have serious political implications, especially with the forthcoming Presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for the same day.
“With the exclusion of Christians from major senatorial tickets, there is a growing sentiment among Christian voters that they may be compelled to support a Christian presidential candidate and senatorial candidates from parties that demonstrate greater commitment to religious inclusion and fairness,” Lamido said.
The group urged Governor Abdullahi Sule to reconsider his approach, warning that it sends the wrong signal to Christians across the state.
It also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the APC National Chairman, and other party leaders to intervene in the matter.