A former chairman of the Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Iyiola Oyedepo, insisted there is no constitutional or moral basis for blocking a Christian from becoming the state’s next governor, despite claims circulating in some political circles.
He warned that attempts to shape the 2027 race through religious exclusion risk deepening division and undermining efforts to promote unity and stability in a state with diverse communities.
The veteran politician said the debate reflects political calculations rather than genuine concerns about leadership, arguing that competence, justice, and inclusiveness remain the qualities voters prioritize in assessing candidates in Kwara State.
Addressing journalists, Oyedepo rejected arguments that only a Muslim should succeed Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, calling them baseless and out of touch with the mood of most residents.
“We all jointly own Kwara and contribute to its growth. Nothing bars a Christian from governing this state. Those pushing that view represent a tiny fringe,” he said.
Oyedepo added that most residents care more about effective leadership than religious identity, noting that faith has often been used politically to manipulate elections rather than reflect voter preferences.
“The majority of Muslims in Kwara simply want good leadership, regardless of the candidate’s faith. Religion is one of many tools used to influence elections. Claiming a Christian cannot win in Kwara is self-serving and contrary to the public interest,” he said.
Oyepedo cautioned that introducing religious intolerance into the 2027 contest could attract damaging international attention, especially as global observers monitor Nigeria’s record on freedom of belief.
“With the United States placing Nigeria on a list of countries of ‘particular concern’ over religious intolerance, we cannot fuel extremist narratives.
He also criticised the federal government’s slow response to violent attacks in parts of the North Central, saying the situation has reinforced perceptions of religiously motivated killings.
Oyedepo urged leaders to resist divisive rhetoric and focus on protecting communities. “We must rise above this. Leadership should unite us, not tear us apart,” he said.
