- Refutes Christian persecution allegations
National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has claimed that most Christians, which the ruling party consulted, expressed support for the Muslim-Muslim ticket of President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday.
Yilwatda said the concerns initially raised by some Christians over possible marginalisation under a Muslim-Muslim administration did not materialise, arguing that Christians continue to have their voices heard in the government.
“Most Christians that we’ve engaged and we’ve spoken to them, they are very okay with the Muslim-Muslim ticket,” he said.
“The thought and the fear of most Christians was that the Muslim-Muslim ticket may suppress their voices, but their voices are heard loud and clear now.”
The APC chairman also rejected suggestions that Tinubu’s religious affiliation has resulted in discrimination or persecution of Christians since he assumed office three years ago.
On Tinubu’s eligibility to seek another term amid questions about his health and physical fitness, Yilwatda maintained that the President is fit to contest the 2027 election.
He also explained why Tinubu might not personally attend every campaign rally, citing the demands of his constitutional responsibilities as President.
According to Yilwatda, some government officials have been directed to participate in selected campaign activities to prevent political engagements from disrupting the running of government.
Turning to the leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the APC chairman denied claims that the ruling party is orchestrating the crises across opposition political parties.
He also spoke on dispute followed a Federal High Court judgment that invalidated the David Mark-led leadership of the ADC.
On it, Yilwatda questioned why the opposition party is blaming the APC for a crisis triggered by a lawsuit filed by one of its own members.
He further expressed confidence that Tinubu would defeat former Vice President Atiku Abubakar if the 2027 presidential election is conducted freely and fairly.