A Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Haliru Maraya, has called on political parties in Kaduna State to avoid presenting same-faith governorship and deputy governorship candidates in the 2027 general elections, urging political leaders to promote inclusiveness and strengthen religious harmony.
Speaking on the political landscape ahead of the elections, the cleric stressed that Kaduna’s diverse religious and ethnic composition requires leaders to adopt approaches that foster unity, mutual trust and peaceful coexistence.
He argued that political parties should be mindful of the state’s unique demographic realities when selecting candidates, noting that balanced tickets could help reinforce public confidence and reduce unnecessary political and religious tensions.
According to Sheikh Maraya, leadership should reflect the diversity of the people and encourage a sense of belonging among all segments of society.
He urged political stakeholders to prioritise competence, fairness and national unity while making decisions on candidate selection, rather than allowing considerations that could deepen existing divisions.
Kaduna State has historically been one of Nigeria’s most religiously and ethnically diverse states, with both Muslim and Christian populations playing significant roles in its political and social life.
The issue of same-faith political tickets has remained a subject of national debate in recent years, generating differing opinions among political leaders, religious organisations and civil society groups.
Supporters of balanced tickets argue that they promote inclusivity, strengthen national cohesion and reassure diverse communities of equitable representation in government.
Others maintain that political parties should primarily select candidates based on competence, experience and their ability to deliver effective governance, irrespective of religious affiliation.
Political analysts note that Nigeria’s Constitution does not prohibit political parties from fielding same-faith tickets. However, they acknowledge that parties often consider regional, ethnic and religious balance as part of broader political calculations aimed at building wider electoral support.
The cleric also appealed to politicians and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully, avoid inflammatory rhetoric and place the interests of the people above partisan considerations.
He urged religious leaders to continue promoting dialogue, tolerance and peaceful coexistence before, during and after the 2027 elections.
As political parties intensify preparations for the forthcoming polls, discussions surrounding candidate selection, power sharing and inclusive governance are expected to remain central to political discourse in Kaduna State and across Nigeria.
Observers believe that decisions made during the nomination process could significantly influence campaign dynamics, voter perception and efforts to sustain peace in one of the country’s most politically strategic states.
The cleric concluded by encouraging all political actors to uphold democratic values, respect diversity and work collectively toward peaceful, credible and issue-based elections that advance the unity and development of Kaduna State.
