By Bashir Bello, Abuja
The Christian Media Forum (CMF) has expressed deep concerns over the unveiling of Vice President Kashim Shettima as the running mate to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election, describing the decision as disappointing and insensitive to the concerns of millions of Northern Christians.
The forum said the continued adoption of a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket by the All Progressives Congress (APC) raises serious questions about the party’s commitment to national unity, fairness, equity, and inclusive governance in Nigeria’s diverse society.
In a statement jointly signed by the National President of the Christian Media Forum, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson and the National Secretary, Andrew Ibrahim Mshelia, the organization said the decision further reinforces the perception that Northern Christians have continued to be sidelined in the nation’s political leadership.
According to the forum, the APC has failed to demonstrate genuine commitment to religious balance and equal representation, despite repeated calls from various stakeholders for inclusiveness in governance.
The forum noted that Northern Christians have remained loyal citizens who have made enormous contributions to the country’s development and democratic process, yet they continue to be marginalized in key political appointments and decision-making positions under the current administration.
It further said that the Tinubu-led administration has not done enough to reassure Northern Christians that they are equal partners in the Nigerian project, stressing that the pattern of appointments and political decisions has deepened feelings of exclusion among many communities.
The Christian Media Forum also lamented that Northern Christians have remained among the major victims of insecurity, particularly in states affected by terrorism, banditry, kidnappings, and attacks on farming communities, while many affected families continue to suffer enormous losses.
The forum argued that despite bearing a significant burden of the security challenges confronting the country, many Northern Christian communities have not received the level of attention and protection expected from the federal government.
It said the decision to retain another Muslim-Muslim ticket ahead of the 2027 elections could further widen existing divisions and weaken efforts aimed at promoting national cohesion and mutual trust among Nigeria’s diverse religious and ethnic groups.
The forum emphasized that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity and urged political parties to embrace inclusiveness by ensuring that every segment of the population feels represented in the nation’s highest political offices.
While acknowledging that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has the constitutional right to choose his running mate, the Christian Media Forum maintained that leadership decisions should also reflect the principles of justice, fairness, and sensitivity to the country’s plural nature.
The organization called on political leaders across party lines to avoid actions capable of creating unnecessary tension or reinforcing perceptions of exclusion among any religious or regional group.
The forum appealed to Christians across Nigeria, particularly those in the Northern region, to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and actively participate in the democratic process as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
It also encouraged eligible voters to carefully assess the character, competence, integrity, and commitment of all candidates seeking elective office and to vote for leaders who will promote justice, security, equity, and national unity.
The Christian Media Forum reaffirmed its commitment to advocating peaceful coexistence, religious harmony, and equal opportunities for all Nigerians, urging political actors to place the country’s unity and long-term stability above partisan or sectional interests.
