Nigerian Religious Groups Criticize Ruling Party's Candidates: Nigeria
Past presidential tickets have been mixed, with one Muslim and one Christian, to reflect Nigeria's religious population, which is just over half Muslim.
Among religious groups criticizing the selection is the Christian Association of Nigeria. In a statement this week, CAN said the selection portrayed insensitivity toward the collective unity of the country, citing insecurities and a recent wave of attacks on churches. The association expressed concerns that the issues could escalate if there isn't proper representation in the corridors of power.
On Sunday, the ruling party's presidential flag bearer, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a Muslim, named former Borno state Governor Kashim Shettima, also a Muslim, as his running mate."We're not selfish," CAN spokesperson Adebayo Oladeji told VOA."We're not saying he should pick a pastor or one of our officials. What we're saying is go for a Christian to balance it. It's for unity, peace and development of this country.
Despite the fact that Nigeria's population is about equally divided between Christians and Muslims, Christian leaders have complained for years about being sidelined when top political appointments are made.Since last month, Christian groups have renewed criticism of authorities, saying they have turned a blind eye to a spate of attacks on Christians and churches.
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