Concerns Raised Over Political Representation of Christians in Kwara South
A coalition of groups under the banner of “Concerned Youths of Ifelodun” in Kwara South has voiced allegations against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership for neglecting Christian participation in politics. The coalition is urging President Bola Tinubu, the party’s National Chairman Nentawe Irwatoda, and Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq to rectify what they describe as a political imbalance that undermines equity.
Call for Inclusivity in Political Positions
In a statement issued by spokesperson Mr. Busayo Aderowo, the group appealed to APC leaders at both national and state levels to prioritize inclusivity and fairness in political appointments, particularly in Kwara South, as the next electoral cycle approaches. They argue that Christians in the region have been consistently marginalized since the re-establishment of democratic governance in 1999.
Data on Political Representation Favoring Muslims
The group contends that all three senators representing Kwara in the National Assembly, along with six members of the state’s House of Assembly, are Muslims. Highlighting this disparity, they emphasized that there has been no Christian Member of Parliament from the Ifelodun/Oyun/Ofa Federal Constituency since the return to democracy.
Perceived Imbalance in Government Appointments
Concerns have also been raised regarding the composition of state government appointments. The coalition claims that most key positions are held by Muslims, pointing out that Governor Abdulrazaq himself is Muslim, along with the majority of the state’s commissioners, local government chairpersons, and heads of various parastatals.
Ongoing Concerns from the Christian Community
The prevailing political landscape has left many Christians in Kwara State feeling marginalized, prompting multiple appeals from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) regarding what they perceive as biased political appointments. The group is urging the APC leadership to ensure equity, especially ahead of the upcoming party primaries.
Warnings Against Candidate Selection Bias
The coalition has noted troubling indications that certain party stakeholders may be favoring Muslim candidates for the Kwara South House of Representatives seat. They cautioned against any efforts to exclude Christian candidates, underscoring the need for fair representation to promote unity within the party.
APC’s Commitment to Addressing Allegations
In response to these concerns, APC National Chairman Nentawe Irwatoda assured the group that their claims would be taken seriously and addressed appropriately, acknowledging the sensitivity surrounding religious issues in Nigeria. Mr. Irwatoda, through his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Mr. Abimbola Tuki, confirmed that all complaints would be evaluated thoroughly.
