By Uthman Baba-Naseer, Minna
The Concern Northern Women Christian Forum (CNWCF) in Niger State has criticised Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s decision to retain a Muslim-Muslim governorship ticket for the 2027 general election, described it as a setback for religious inclusion and equitable representation.
Addressing journalists in Minna over the weekend, the Chairperson of the forum in the state, Mrs Grace Zegi, said the governor’s reaffirmation of the same-faith ticket reflected political convenience rather than inclusiveness, despite repeated appeals from various groups for a more balanced approach.
She noted that although the Nigerian Constitution does not prohibit a Muslim-Muslim ticket, political leadership should demonstrate sensitivity to the state’s religious diversity to ensure that no group feels marginalised.
According to her, the state’s current socio-economic and security challenges require leadership that promotes unity and reassures all segments of the population that they are fairly represented in government.
Mrs Zegi said the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration could have sent a stronger message of cohesion by adopting a religiously inclusive governorship ticket ahead of the 2027 elections.
She stressed that Christians in Niger State believed in peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among people of different faiths and ethnic backgrounds, adding that diversity in leadership strengthens public confidence and reinforces the principle of fairness.
“We have a large Christian population in Niger State, and the highest political offices should reflect the state’s religious diversity, just as we respect the zoning arrangement across political parties,” she said.
Questioning the administration’s commitment to inclusion, she asked, “How do you show the people that you are a promoter of inclusion, equity, fairness and unity? If the situation were reversed, would it be acceptable to those currently in power?”
While acknowledging that the governor has the constitutional prerogative to choose his running mate, Mrs Zegi argued that the current arrangement does not reflect equity and fairness.
“We are watching because when it is time for elections, Christians are remembered and asked to mobilise votes. But when it comes to appointments and selections, we are sidelined. We believe in equity and fairness in governance,” she stated.
Despite the criticism, the forum pledged support for Governor Bago’s second-term ambition, insisting that its position was not against his re-election but rather a call for balanced representation in government.
“For the record, we supported the Farmer Governor during his first term, and we will support his second-term bid. What we are asking for is equal and fair representation of the two major religions in appointments,” Mrs Zegi said.
She recalled Governor Bago’s earlier promise that his administration would ensure every segment of society was represented in government in line with the state’s character.
Mrs Zegi urged the governor to honour that commitment through future appointments, noting that Christians would continue to monitor developments.
“There are other principal offices, and we are watching patiently, hoping that His Excellency will do the needful because posterity will judge every leader. The question is: What will he be remembered for?” she said.
