Nasarawa APC Faces Backlash Over Alleged Marginalisation of Christian Politicians

A recent development in Nasarawa State has sparked controversy, with a political pressure group, Integrity Youth Alliance, accusing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of deliberately sidelining Christian politicians in the party's ongoing political arrangements. This alleged marginalisation has raised concerns that it could undermine President Bola Tinubu's chances in the state. According to the group, the outcome of the recent APC primary elections in the state has overwhelmingly favoured Muslim aspirants, while qualified Christian contenders have been excluded. The emergence of Muslim candidates for the governorship position and all three senatorial tickets has heightened concerns among Christian stakeholders, who believe that religious balance and inclusiveness have been abandoned within the party. The group cited the disqualification of Mrs Angela Aya Bako, who sought to contest the Nasarawa North Senatorial District by-election, as one of the incidents that have fuelled grievances among Christians in the state. It also pointed to the replacement of Nasarawa State Deputy Governor, Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe, with Abubakar Nalaraba for the Nasarawa South Senatorial seat as further evidence of unequal treatment of Christian politicians. The group warned that the perceived exclusion of Christians from key senatorial positions could have serious political consequences, especially as future presidential and National Assembly elections are expected to be conducted simultaneously. It argued that many Christian voters may begin to support alternative political parties that demonstrate greater commitment to religious inclusion. The alliance referenced the outcome of the 2023 presidential election in Nasarawa State, where the APC lost to the Labour Party despite Governor Sule's leadership of the state's APC structure. The group further alleged that speculation was growing over whether Governor Sule's political decisions were weakening President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's support base in Nasarawa State. It called on President Tinubu, APC National Chairman Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, and other party leaders to intervene and ensure fairness in the allocation of senatorial tickets and other elective positions. The allegations come amid increasing political realignments and consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections, with religious representation and power-sharing arrangements emerging as key issues in several states across the country.