The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Enugu State Chapter, has rejected any move by political parties to field a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the 2027 general elections, warning that a repeat of the same-faith arrangement adopted in the 2023 polls would further alienate millions of Christians and threaten national unity.
The position was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the association’s second quarter meeting in Enugu and signed by the state CAN Chairman, Most Rev. Ernest Anezichukwu Obodo.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Obodo said Christians only “reluctantly tolerated” the Muslim-Muslim ticket in the 2023 presidential election and would not accept a repeat in 2027.
Describing the arrangement as “a slap on the face of Christians,” the cleric said presenting another same-faith ticket would amount to suggesting that no Christian in the country is qualified to serve as vice president.
“The implication is that the party cannot find any Christian worthy to vie for the vice-presidential ticket,” the communiqué stated.
The association argued that Nigeria’s multi-religious character demands inclusiveness in political leadership, insisting that any action capable of creating feelings of exclusion could further widen existing fault lines in the country.
CAN also accused political actors of applying double standards, noting that a Christian-Christian presidential ticket by any major political party would likely generate widespread national outrage.
It therefore urged political parties to respect Nigeria’s religious diversity by ensuring balanced representation in the choice of presidential candidates and their running mates.
The association further called on Christians across the country to vote wisely in the 2027 elections and elect leaders who would promote justice, equity and national cohesion.
On another national issue, Enugu CAN opposed a proposed amendment to the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) Act seeking to impose a N50,000 fine on persons preaching inside commercial vehicles.
The association appealed to President Bola Tinubu to withhold assent to the bill if passed by the National Assembly, arguing that it infringes on the constitutional rights to freedom of religion and expression and could trigger avoidable tensions.
On security, CAN acknowledged the Federal Government’s efforts in securing the release of abducted teachers and schoolchildren in Oyo State but urged authorities to intensify efforts to rescue other victims still in captivity.
It also called on security agencies to identify and prosecute individuals financing terrorism across the country.
Despite its reservations over national political developments, the association commended Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, for what it described as notable achievements in infrastructure, security, peace and human capital development in his three years in office.
CAN, however, urged the state government to review existing tax policies to ease the economic burden on residents.
The association also encouraged eligible Christians in Enugu State to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and actively participate in the 2027 general elections.