By: Erewunmi Peace

A Muslim stakeholders’ group in Osun State has strongly rejected recent calls from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) demanding that political parties field a Christian candidate for the 2026 governorship election.

The youth wing of CAN had argued that Christians in Osun deserve representation at the highest level of governance and urged political parties to zone their governorship tickets to Christians ahead of the election.

In its response, the Muslim group criticized the demand as unnecessary and potentially divisive, insisting that leadership choices in the state should be based on competence, capacity, and democratic choice, not religious identity.

The group emphasised that Osun has historically maintained peaceful inter-faith relations, noting that bringing religious sentiments into the governorship contest could heighten political and social tension.

“What Osun needs in 2026 is a capable leader — Christian or Muslim — who will unite the state, not divide it,” the Muslim leaders stressed.

They called on political actors, religious leaders, and community organisations to encourage harmony as the election season approaches.

Political analysts say religious alignment has sometimes influenced elections in southwestern Nigeria, but stakeholders continue to warn that placing religion above merit in leadership selection could undermine democracy.