The Christian Media Forum (CMF) has criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC) for retaining Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s running mate for the 2027 presidential election, describing the decision as disappointing and insensitive to the concerns of Northern Christians.
In a statement jointly signed by its National President, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, and National Secretary, Andrew Ibrahim Mshelia, the forum said the continued adoption of a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket raises concerns about the APC’s commitment to fairness, equity, national unity and inclusive governance.
According to the forum, the decision reinforces the perception that Northern Christians have continued to be excluded from the country’s highest political leadership despite their contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development.
The CMF argued that repeated appeals by stakeholders for greater religious balance and inclusiveness have not been reflected in the party’s political decisions or the federal government’s appointments.
It further stated that many Northern Christians have remained marginalised in key positions while also bearing the brunt of insecurity, including terrorism, banditry, kidnappings and attacks on farming communities.
The organisation maintained that affected communities have not received adequate protection or attention from the Federal Government despite the scale of the security challenges confronting them.
The forum warned that retaining another Muslim-Muslim ticket for the 2027 election could deepen existing divisions and undermine efforts to strengthen national cohesion and trust among Nigeria’s diverse religious and ethnic groups.
While acknowledging that President Tinubu has the constitutional right to nominate his running mate, the CMF insisted that leadership decisions should also reflect justice, fairness and sensitivity to Nigeria’s multi-religious and multicultural nature.
The organisation urged political parties to adopt more inclusive approaches that ensure every segment of the country feels represented at the highest levels of government.
It also called on political leaders to avoid actions capable of creating unnecessary tension or reinforcing feelings of exclusion among any religious or regional group.
The forum appealed to Christians across the country, particularly those in Northern Nigeria, to remain peaceful, law-abiding and actively participate in the democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
It further encouraged eligible voters to assess candidates based on their character, competence, integrity and commitment to justice, security, equity and national unity before casting their votes.
The Christian Media Forum reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence, religious harmony and equal opportunities for all Nigerians, while urging political actors to prioritise national unity and long-term stability above partisan interests.