The Concern Northern Women Christian Forum,(CNCW), in Niger State, has observed that the same faith ticket in Niger state, is to discard the feelings of the adherents of other faiths.
The forum also noted that the reaffirmation of the Muslim-Muslim Governorship ticket by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago is a reflection of political convenience over inclusions.
Addressing Journalists at a newsbriefing in Minna,during the Weekend,the Chairperson of the Forum in Niger State,Mrs Grace Zegi explained that various groups in the state had appealed to the Governor to give thoughtful considerations in his appointment and “ we believe as one who is seen to be lover of both faiths, will do well to balance the equation”.
She pointed out that the Nigerian Constitution did not prohibit such arrangement, stressing that political leadership should demonstrate sensitivity to the state’ s religious diversity, “ as we are citizens and such decisions amount to undermining other religious “
“Our current socio-economic and security challenges require leadership that fosters cohesion and one that reassures all segments of the population that they are adequately represented in the government.
“The Governor Umaru Bago led All Progressives Congress (APC) could have sent a stronger message of unity by adopting a more religiously inclusive ticket for the 2027 general election”.Mrs Zegi stated
She maintained that the Christians strength lies in their diversity adding that the unity of the Christians faith should be built on mutual respect among people of different faiths, ethnicities,and zones.
“A leadership that consciously reflects this diversity strengthens the people’s confidence and reinforces the principle that no group should feel excluded from the highest levels of governance.
“We have a large Christian population, Niger state’s highest political offices should reflect the State’s religious diversity just as we all respect the zoning formula which has come to stay irrespective of the political parties.
“How do you show to the people that you are a promoter of inclusion, equity, fairness and unity? The question then is, if it were the other way round, would it augur well to those in power”? she asked
Mrs Zegi positioned that by the Nigeria’s Constitution, the Governor has the prerogative to nominate anybody of his choice to be his running mate, noting that it should be known that, there is still no equity and fairness in this current government.
“We are watching, because when it is time for politicking, they remember Christians and want us to mobilise votes. When it is time to appoint or select, we are side-lined. We believe and stand for equity and fairness in Governance”.
According to Mrs. Zegi For the records, we supported the Farmer governor's first term and we will support his second term bid but what we are calling for is that there should be equal and fair representation of the two major religions in appointments.
She argued that the governor had during his remarks said that his administration will do everything possible to ensure that every aspect of the Society is represented in his government in order to have a reflection of State character in governance.
We will continue to speak and we hope Governor Bago keeps to his words so that we can have equal representation in the system.
“There are other Principal offices, and we are watching patiently and hoping that his Excellency will do the needful because posterity is there. What will he be remembered for”? she concluded
