The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria has rejected plans to field a Muslim-Muslim ticket in the 2027 presidential election. The Christian body argues that Nigeria's diversity demands balanced religious representation in leadership positions.
The APC has already nominated President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, both Muslims, as its presidential candidates for 2027. This move prompted the PFN to issue a formal response through its National Publicity Secretary, Dr.
Sylvanus Ukafia, after the organisation's National Executive Council meeting.
Dr. Ukafia said the ticket fails to reflect Nigeria's multi-religious and multi-ethnic character.
"Nigeria is a multi-religious and multi-ethnic nation whose diversity should be reflected in its leadership," the statement read.
The PFN believes inclusive governance strengthens national unity. It contends that when all citizens feel represented in leadership, mutual trust and belonging flourish across the country.
Beyond the ticket issue, the PFN also opposed any proposed law restricting Christian preaching. The organisation called such legislation unconstitutional and incompatible with Nigerians' fundamental rights.
"We strongly oppose any law or policy that seeks to ban or unduly restrict Christian preaching," the statement declared. The PFN noted that Nigeria's constitution explicitly guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, religion, expression, and peaceful assembly.
The Christian body acknowledged that reasonable regulation of religious activities to maintain public order is legitimate. However, it warned that such rules must never become tools for silencing religious expression or violating human rights.
The PFN called on all government arms and levels to defend the constitution vigorously. It urged authorities to protect every Nigerian's rights regardless of their faith and reject any discriminatory legislation targeting religious communities.
The organisation then addressed Christians directly, urging them to remain calm and law-abiding. "We must continue to demonstrate the love of Christ while exercising our constitutional rights responsibly and without violence or provocation," it said.
The PFN encouraged dialogue among government officials, religious leaders, and civil society groups. The body stressed that Nigeria's religious and ethnic diversity represents strength rather than weakness.
The organisation pledged its continued commitment to prayer and collaboration with stakeholders. It said it would work toward building a peaceful, just, and prosperous nation where all citizens enjoy equal legal protection.
