The Muslim-Muslim ticket has become a subject of renewed public discussion after the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) stated that it does not support the adoption of such an arrangement for elective public office ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Christian body said Nigeria’s religious and ethnic diversity should be reflected in its leadership, describing inclusive governance as essential to national unity and mutual trust.
The position was contained in a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of the PFN, Dr Sylvanus Ukafia, following a meeting of the organisation’s National Executive Council (NEC). The statement came after the All Progressives Congress (APC) adopted President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, both Muslims, as its presidential ticket for the 2027 election.
According to the PFN, “The National Executive Council, NEC, of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), at its duly convened meeting, has carefully considered recent developments affecting the nation and wishes to make the following resolutions known to the Nigerian public.
“The PFN reiterates its unwavering commitment to the unity, peace, and progress of Nigeria. We remain convinced that our nation can only flourish where justice, equity, the rule of law, and respect for the Constitution prevail.
“The PFN does not support the adoption of a Muslim-Muslim ticket for elective public office. Nigeria is a multi-religious and multi-ethnic nation whose diversity should be reflected in its leadership. Inclusive governance promotes national unity, mutual trust, and a sense of belonging among all citizens.”
Beyond the issue of the Muslim-Muslim ticket, the PFN also expressed opposition to any proposed law that would prohibit or unduly restrict Christian preaching. The organisation stated that such legislation would be inconsistent with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, religion, expression and peaceful assembly.
While acknowledging the need for lawful regulation to preserve public order, the fellowship maintained that such measures should not be used to suppress legitimate religious expression or infringe on constitutional rights. It called on all arms and levels of government to uphold constitutional provisions, protect the rights of every Nigerian regardless of faith and ensure that no legislation discriminates against any religious community.
The PFN further urged Christians across the country to remain peaceful, prayerful and law-abiding while exercising their constitutional rights responsibly. It also encouraged dialogue among government, religious leaders and civil society on issues capable of affecting national cohesion, stating that Nigeria’s diversity should be regarded as a strength rather than a source of division.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to praying for the nation and working with relevant stakeholders to promote a peaceful, just and prosperous Nigeria where every citizen enjoys equal protection under the law as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 general elections.
