BEVERLY HILLS, October 26, (THEWILL) – Former President, General Olusegun Obasanjo has warned political parties against the dangers of fielding two Muslims or two Christians as president and vice presidential candidates in the 2015 presidential election, saying it poses a grave danger to the stability of the country at this delicate time.
Obasanjo, a Christian and retired General in the Nigerian Army, in a statement he personally signed on Sunday, believed to be a counsel to the All Progressives Congress (APC), whose leadership is presently strategizing on the aspirant to present as its candidate for the 2015 Presidential election, said it would be insensitive to the point of absurdity for any leader or political party to contemplate presenting two Muslims or two Christians as its President and Vice Presidential candidates in the election.
There have been speculations in the media suggesting that the APC is seriously considering fielding a Muslim-Muslim ticket. Its three main contenders for the Presidential ticket are Muslims from northern Nigeria – former Head of State, General Muhammadu Buhari; Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, and Kano State Governor Mr. Rabiu Kwankwaso.
The full text of Obasanjo’s statement is reproduced below:
“Sensitivity is a necessary ingredient for enhancement of peace, security and stability at this point in the political discourse and arrangement for Nigeria and for encouraging confidence and trust.
It will be insensitive to the point of absurdity for any leader, or any political party to be toying with Muslim- Muslim or Christian-Christian ticket at this juncture.
Nigeria cannot at this stage raise the spectre and fear of Islamization or Christianization. The idea of proselytization in any form is a grave danger that must not be contemplated by any serious-minded politician at this delicate situation in Nigeria, as this time is different from any other time.
Therefore, disregarding the fact that there are fears that need to be allayed at this point will amount not only to insensitivity of the highest order but will also amount to very bad politics indeed.”
