Muslim-Muslim Ticket: Northern CAN Lauds Tinubu’s Inclusive Governance

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has commended President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to inclusive governance, noting that it has mitigated concerns over the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket.

The Chairman of Northern CAN, Reverend Yakubu Pam, stated this during an interview with journalists in Kaduna following the National Executive Committee meeting of Northern CAN.

Pam emphasized the need for balancing representation between Christians and Muslims in key leadership roles, suggesting that the Vice President position be occupied by a Christian in future administrations.

“For me, the most important thing is a government that is inclusive. As far as they have done Muslim-Muslim ticket, we have also seen reasonable inclusiveness,” Pam said. “Left for us, we will say yes, let’s have Christians in certain positions like Vice President and others to reflect our diversity.”

Pam added, “The Presidency will be good to bring a Christian as number two. We will appreciate it; there is nothing wrong with that. Whatever way, the important thing is that insecurity should be tackled.”

The Northern CAN Chairman urged the government to declare a state of emergency on insecurity to allow Nigerians to live and work without fear. He acknowledged improvements in the security situation but stressed the need for more robust interventions.

“We may have a Christian there, and killings may still be going on, but it is something we still pray for,” he noted.

Pam highlighted the ongoing struggle with hunger and economic hardship, saying, “I think the major challenge now is hunger. People are really, really suffering. Prices of commodities are crazy.”

In his address at the meeting, Pam applauded Tinubu’s administration for its efforts to address challenges, including security and economic issues, but appealed for more significant interventions to restore peace and stability in Northern Nigeria.

“Christians in some states still face challenges in acquiring land for church buildings, as well as marginalization in political appointments and access to opportunities,” Pam said. “We appreciate the efforts made by Mr. President and his administration to address these issues, but we appeal for greater intervention.”

### **SGF Pledges Government’s Commitment**

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, represented by his Chief of Staff, Christopher Tarka, assured the association of the government’s dedication to good governance.

He highlighted Tinubu’s actions during the Christmas season as proof of his commitment to all Nigerians.

“The President’s actions, particularly during the last Christmas season—providing palliatives to Christians across the North, reducing fuel prices, and prioritizing security during the festivities—demonstrate his commitment to the welfare of all Nigerians,” Tarka said.

He pledged to bring the concerns raised by Northern CAN, including difficulties in acquiring land for church buildings and the perceived exclusion of Northern Christians in political appointments, to Tinubu’s attention.

“The government is working tirelessly to restore peace, stability, and economic growth in affected areas,” Tarka added.

Northern CAN reiterated its appeal to Nigerians to continue praying for Tinubu’s administration and for peace, progress, and prosperity across the nation. “While we celebrate unity and religious harmony, we cannot overlook the significant challenges facing Christians and the general population in Northern Nigeria,” Pam said.

The meeting concluded with a call for sustained prayers and constructive dialogue to address lingering issues affecting the Northern region.