APC Urged to Ensure Religious Balance in Kwara South Politics
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- A youth group in Kwara South, Nigeria, has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of political marginalization against Christians.
- The group cited the lack of Christian representation in elective and appointive positions, particularly in Kwara South, since 1999.
- They urged party leadership to ensure religious balance in political appointments and candidate selection ahead of future elections.
In Kwara State, Nigeria, a growing concern over religious inclusivity in politics has been voiced by the Concerned Youth of Ifelodun. This group has formally accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership, at both state and national levels, of systematically sidelining Christian politicians, particularly within the Kwara South senatorial district. Their appeal, directed towards President Bola Tinubu, the APC National Chairman, and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, highlights a perceived imbalance in political representation.
The group's statement, issued by spokesman Busayo Adelowo, details a pattern of marginalization dating back to Nigeria's return to democratic rule in 1999. They point to the current composition of the state's federal delegationโall three senators and all six House of Representatives members are reportedly Muslim. Furthermore, they claim that no Christian lawmaker has represented the Ifelodun/Oyun/Offa Federal Constituency since 1999, and that key strategic offices within the state government are predominantly held by Muslims, including the governor and most commissioners and local government chairmen.
The deviations of the criminal justice system have existed and exist. I have information and have requested action against those judges who dare to charge for amnesty, that must cease
This alleged imbalance has reportedly caused significant disquiet among the Christian community in Kwara State. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has previously raised similar concerns regarding lopsided political appointments. The Concerned Youth of Ifelodun are now urging the APC to actively promote fairness and equity in its upcoming primary elections, especially in the selection of candidates for the Kwara South House of Representatives seat. They warn against any attempts to favor a specific Muslim aspirant, emphasizing that equitable representation is vital for party unity and upholding the APC's stated principles of justice and inclusiveness.
In response, the APC national chairman, through his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, assured the group that their allegations have been noted and will be addressed. The party acknowledged the sensitivity of religious matters and promised a thorough examination and appropriate handling of all complaints. This situation highlights the delicate balance of religious and political interests within Nigeria and the ongoing efforts to ensure fair representation for all communities.
The deviations of the criminal justice system have existed and exist. I have information and have requested action against those judges who dare to charge for amnesty, that must cease
Originally published by ThisDay. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.