CAN, JNI Disagree with Babachir’s Labeling of APC as an Islamic Party

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) have voiced their disagreement with former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Engr. Babachir Lawal, over his labeling of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as an Islamic party.

This controversy emerged when Lawal asserted that Mr. Peter Obi of the Labour Party won the 2023 presidential poll, not President Bola Tinubu of the APC, whom he claimed came in third. Lawal continued his criticism of the APC, stating that it is now led by Muslims who make decisions in mosques. He also expressed sympathy for some APC leaders, describing them as ‘sycophantic, second-class’ members.

In response, the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Mr. Felix Morka, suggested that Lawal’s remarks were driven by disappointment over not being chosen as President Tinubu’s running mate.

CAN has firmly disapproved of the practice of labeling political parties based on religious affiliations, emphasizing that such categorizations undermine inclusivity and respect for religious diversity in the country. The organization maintains a neutral stance and encourages its members to make informed decisions based on their individual beliefs and values.

CAN has called on political parties and politicians to prioritize national development, good governance, and the welfare of all citizens, irrespective of their religious backgrounds. They have stressed the importance of respectful dialogue, tolerance, and unity among all Nigerians, regardless of their political or religious inclinations.

Similarly, JNI challenged Lawal to provide evidence supporting his claim that a national party with elected officials across the country has become an Islamic party. They questioned the basis for such a characterization and pointed out that the APC operates in states with diverse religious demographics.

In response to the criticism he received, Babachir Lawal stated that some key allies of President Tinubu’s administration had reached out to him. He reiterated his belief that the APC has transitioned into an Islamic party and maintained that Peter Obi won the last presidential election. He expressed his concerns about the party’s leadership being predominantly Muslim and made references to specific positions held by Muslim members.

This controversy has underscored the importance of maintaining a non-religious or non-sectarian approach in politics and the need for respectful and constructive dialogue in the public discourse.