From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) have joined Nigerians in condemning the decision of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to field same-faith candidates for the 2023 presidential election.
The youth, held a peaceful protest in Abuja on Tuesday to herald the commencement of mobilisation against the APC and any other political party that might have fielded same-faith candidates for the forthcoming presidential election.
YOWICAN North Central Chairman Owoyemi Alfred Olushola told reporters at a press conference in Abuja that promoting same-faith candidates does not augur well for Nigeria and should be stopped from causing more division in the country.
He confirmed that the executive members have been mobilised for sensitisation at community/family levels to ensure that people understand the implications of the decision, and save themselves and Nigeria from the “calamity” that might befall it.
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“Same-faith ticket is absolutely unhealthy for a highly diversified country like Nigeria, especially in the face of the growing and alarming insecurity in our nation at the moment. Any well-meaning presidential candidate will focus on inclusivity, federal character and any other steps that would strengthen the fragile peace and unity in Nigeria,” he added.
“Consequently, the Nigerian Christian youths are not unaware of the division and tension currently overheating an already heated polity in Nigeria, and therefore, will not support or encourage any action or decision that is capable of further dividing and setting this nation on fire.”
The Christian youth leader, however, described the Muslim-Muslim ticket as adopted by APC as an insult to the sensitivity of Nigerians, and Christian youths have loudly said a big No to that decision.
“While we appreciate and recognise that candidates of political parties have the right to present their choice candidates; for national interest, justice and fairness, the parties should be sensitive and do everything humanly possible not to create or endorse any perception that would create fear and division among Nigerians.”
He called on all peace-loving Christian youths and their counterparts in other faiths not to allow themselves to be bought over or cajoled into accepting actions and decisions that are not for the unity and progress of Nigeria.