A socio-political organisation, Integrity Youth Alliance, has accused the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Nasarawa State of marginalising Christian politicians in the party’s recent political processes, warning that the trend could have far-reaching electoral consequences ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group raised concerns over what it described as an imbalance in the distribution of key elective positions within the ruling party, particularly following the emergence of Muslim candidates for the governorship seat and the three senatorial districts in the state.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Danjuma Lamido, the alliance argued that the outcome of the party’s recent primaries has generated unease among many Christian stakeholders who believe the principles of inclusiveness and equitable representation are being eroded.
According to the group, Nasarawa’s religious and political diversity should be reflected in the allocation of elective positions to promote unity and strengthen confidence among party members.
“The recent political developments within the APC have created widespread concern among many Christians who feel increasingly excluded from the party’s power-sharing arrangements,” the statement said.
The alliance cited the disqualification of Angela Aya Bako from the Nasarawa North Senatorial District by-election and the nomination of Abubakar Nalaraba for the Nasarawa South Senatorial seat ahead of Deputy Governor Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe as developments that have intensified concerns among Christian party members.
It also referenced previous appeals by the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria, YOWICAN, in Nasarawa State, which had called on APC leaders to ensure fairness and equal opportunities for all party members irrespective of religious affiliation.
The group maintained that the concerns raised by Christian stakeholders appear not to have been adequately addressed, leading to growing dissatisfaction within sections of the party.
It warned that continued perceptions of exclusion could influence voting patterns in future elections, particularly as presidential and National Assembly contests are expected to be held simultaneously in 2027.
According to the alliance, there is increasing sentiment among some Christian voters that support may shift toward political parties perceived to be more inclusive in their candidate selection processes.
The group pointed to the outcome of the 2023 presidential election in Nasarawa State, where the Labour Party secured more votes than the APC, as evidence that political decisions perceived as unfair can affect electoral outcomes.
It further expressed concern that the current political atmosphere could weaken the APC’s support base in the state if steps are not taken to address grievances and restore confidence among aggrieved stakeholders.
The alliance called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the national leadership of the APC, and other key party stakeholders to intervene and promote what it described as a more balanced and inclusive approach to political representation in Nasarawa State.
“The APC was built on the ideals of justice, fairness, inclusion and equal opportunity. Preserving those values remains essential to maintaining party unity and strengthening its electoral fortunes,” the statement added.
The allegations come amid growing political consultations, alignments and realignments across Nasarawa State as political actors position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.
