By Akinwale Kasali
Just like the case of Social Democratic Party, SDP, in the 1993 Presidential election that fielded Two Muslims, Late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and Bashir Tofa in the annulled election, the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has strongly opposed a Christian/Christian and Muslim/Muslim ticket in the 2023 election.
The Religious organization made this assertion through its President, Samson Ayokunle, when the CAN leadership visited the Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege at the National Assembly in Abuja, Nigeria’s Capital.
Ayokunle said political parties should bury the thought of Christian/Christian tickets or Muslim/Muslim Presidential tickets in 2023, because this will heat up the polity, leading to crisis.
CAN also cautioned politicians not to heat up the polity with utterances as campaigns commence.
It, however, advised politicians to always remember there is already tension across Nigeria due to insecurity
“We urge that a balance of both religious practitioners be considered. We don’t want Christian/Christian ticket nor Muslim/Muslim ticket”, he said.
Ayokunle expressed disappointment with the economic downturn and its consequences on the people.
The CAN President called for quick actions and policies that will cushion the effect. Enabling environment, CAN said, should be created for investments and incentives or tax exceptions given to local manufacturers on some goods”, Ayokunle added.
“Unemployment is at an unimaginable level. While we appreciate the efforts of the legislature in calling the attention of the executive, more robust and daring efforts are required.”
