By Jude Opara
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders, (CONYL) has warned political parties against fielding a Muslim/Muslim ticket.
The coalition expressed concern over what it termed “continued marginalization” allegedly felt by “Christian communities following the 2023 Muslim/Muslim presidential ticket” by the All Progressives Congress, (APC).
There was uproar in 2022 when the then APC presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, who is a Muslim, presented Kashim Shettima, another Muslim, as his running mate.
Despite the stiff opposition amid fear of marginalization of the Christian body, the party won the election.
However, a statement issued yesterday by Goodluck Ibem, President General of the CONYL alleged that Christians are being marginalized in the Tinubu-led administration.
The statement reads, “The current religious imbalance in the executive leadership has raised genuine concerns among many Nigerians and contributed to a sense of marginalization among certain segments of the population.
“As we move towards the 2027 general elections, CONYL strongly calls on all political parties, stakeholders, and power brokers to prioritize a balanced Muslim/Christian (or Christian/Muslim) presidential ticket. This is not just a political strategy—it is a moral imperative rooted in the need to restore national unity, peace, and religious equity.
“A religiously balanced ticket will foster unity and inclusion by reflecting the religious diversity of our nation. It will promote peace and interfaith harmony, especially in a time of rising tension and distrust; address the imbalance of the past, reassuring marginalized groups that they are integral to Nigeria’s future; Set a standard for equity that future generations can build upon.
“A presidential ticket that combines both major religious faiths will address equity and fairness. Equal representation reflects the true spirit of democracy and acknowledges the diversity that defines Nigeria.
“It will rebuild public confidence as many Nigerians are eager to see leadership that embodies fairness, moderation, and inclusive governance.
Nigerian youth are tired of politics that divide. We seek leadership that unites”
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