By Musa Baba Adamu
A socio-political organisation, Integrity Youth Alliance (IYA), has cautioned the All Progressives Congress (APC) against what it described as the growing marginalization of Christian politicians in Nasarawa State, warning that the trend could undermine the party’s electoral prospects in the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Danjuma Lamido, the group expressed concern over the emergence of Muslim candidates for the governorship position and the three senatorial districts, arguing that the development has fueled perceptions of religious imbalance within the party.
According to the alliance, many Christian stakeholders believe the APC’s recent political decisions have weakened the principles of inclusiveness, equity and balanced representation that are necessary for party unity.
The group said the outcome of the party’s primaries has generated dissatisfaction among sections of the Christian community, with concerns that their interests are no longer adequately reflected in the party’s power-sharing arrangements.
It cited the disqualification of Angela Aya Bako from the Nasarawa North Senatorial District by-election and the selection of Abubakar Nalaraba for the Nasarawa South Senatorial seat ahead of Deputy Governor Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe as developments that have deepened feelings of exclusion.
The alliance also recalled previous appeals by the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) in Nasarawa State, which urged party leaders to ensure fairness and equal opportunities for members regardless of religious affiliation.
According to the group, the concerns raised by Christian stakeholders have not received sufficient attention, resulting in growing frustration within parts of the APC support base.
It warned that continued perceptions of religious exclusion could influence voter behaviour in future elections, particularly during the 2027 presidential and National Assembly polls.
The alliance claimed there is increasing sentiment among some Christian voters to support parties viewed as more inclusive and accommodating in their candidate selection processes.
As part of its argument, the group pointed to the outcome of the 2023 presidential election in Nasarawa State, where the Labour Party outpolled the APC, suggesting that political decisions perceived as unfair can have significant electoral consequences.
