2027: Reject same-faith presidential ticket – Kenneth Okonkwo to Christians, Muslims

Kenneth Okonkwo, spokesperson for the African Democratic Congress candidate Atiku Abubakar, has called on Christians and Muslims to reject a same-faith presidential ticket for the sake of national unity and the survival of Nigeria's democracy. Okonkwo expressed concern over the Nigerian Constitution's stance against same-faith presidential tickets.

Responding to remarks by Islamic cleric Shiekh Sani Yahaya Jingir, who endorsed a Muslim-Muslim ticket, Okonkwo emphasized the necessity of including both Christians and Muslims in the presidential and vice-presidential roles. He stated that the same-faith ticket is unacceptable for Nigeria in the present day and violates Sections 14(3), 42, and 15(2)(3)(d) of the 1999 Constitution.

Given Shiekh Sani Yahaya Jingir's recent endorsement of a Muslim-Muslim ticket, Okonkwo urged all faithful Muslims and Christians to also reject such a ticket in the 2027 election. Okonkwo reiterated that the presidency involves a partnership between the President and Vice-President, and this partnership must transcend religious differences.

He further pointed to Section 15(3)(d) of the 1999 Constitution, which supports the integration of diverse religious backgrounds in the presidency. Okonkwo argued that both Muslims and Christians should be represented in the highest office in the land to ensure the country's democratic stability and prosperity.