By Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Enugu State Chapter, has strongly condemned the proposed repeat of a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket for the 2027 general elections, describing the arrangement as a direct affront to millions of Christian faithful across the country.
The rejection was made public in a communique issued at the conclusion of the Association’s 2nd Quarter Meeting held in Enugu. Signed by the CAN Chairman of Enugu State, Most Rev. Ernest Anezichukwu Obodo, the religious body stated that repeating the same faith-based joint ticket, first introduced in the 2023 elections, threatens national unity and deepens feelings of political exclusion among Christians.
Addressing journalists on the outcome of the meeting, Bishop Obodo expressed deep concern over the political trend, noting that while Christians “reluctantly tolerated” the same-faith ticket in 2023, a repetition in 2027 is unacceptable.
“Presenting this ticket is a slap on the face of Christians in Nigeria; the implication is that the party cannot find any Christian worthy to vie for the Vice-Presidential ticket,” the communique signed by Bishop Obodo declared.
The state CAN leadership pointed out the clear double standard in the nation’s political landscape, observing that if any major party were to field a Christian-Christian ticket, the entire country would be in turmoil. Bishop Obodo emphasised that political leaders must respect Nigeria’s rich religious diversity and prioritise inclusive governance to safeguard national cohesion.
While calling for equity, the state CAN chief advised Christian voters across the country to exercise wisdom, responsibility, and discernment when making their choices at the ballot box in 2027.
Beyond the political arena, Bishop Ernest Obodo and the Enugu CAN executive also raised sharp concerns over a proposed amendment to the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) Act. The bill reportedly seeks to impose a N50,000 fine on individuals caught preaching inside commercial vehicles. Calling on the President to withhold assent to the bill, CAN warned that such legislation undermines the constitutional right to freedom of religion and peaceful expression, and could potentially spark unnecessary national crises.
On the security front, the association acknowledged the Federal Government’s efforts in securing the release of abducted teachers and schoolchildren in Oyo State. However, CAN urged the government to intensify efforts to free all other citizens held captive by terrorists and step up measures to unmask and prosecute the financial sponsors of terrorism in Nigeria.
Despite its strong critiques on national political developments, the Enugu State CAN chapter commended the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, on his third anniversary in office. Bishop Obodo praised the governor for his achievements in human capital development, peace, security, and infrastructure, while appealing to the state government to continually review tax burdens to ease life for ordinary citizens.
Concluding the address, Bishop Obodo urged all eligible Christians in Enugu State to overcome political apathy, obtain their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and fulfill their civic and moral duty to vote.