*Says No to Muslim- Muslim Tickets
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) in Bayelsa West Senatorial District have endorsed Senator Henry Seriake Dickson and other candidates of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the forthcoming elections.
A statement by Mr. Gabriel Ukuta, Coordinator Ofurumapepe Media informed that the endorsements were made separately during engagements held in Sagbama and Ekeremor Local Government Areas, where Christian leaders and stakeholders expressed concern over what they described as the worsening hardship, hunger, insecurity and economic difficulties confronting Nigerians.
The groups said their decision was driven by the need for political leadership that would prioritise the welfare, security and dignity of citizens, stressing that Christians would participate actively in the electoral process and make their votes count.
The Christian leaders also rejected the emergence of a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket, describing it as a development that raises concerns about inclusivity and the place of Christians in Nigeria’s political leadership.
They vowed to mobilise their members and communities against any presidential ticket that fails to reflect what they consider adequate religious balance and inclusiveness.
The Christian stakeholders expressed confidence in Senator Dickson’s leadership record and endorsed him for the Senate, alongside other NDC candidates contesting various elective positions in Bayelsa West.
They called on Christians and other eligible voters across Sagbama and Ekeremor to remain politically conscious, obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and use their votes to demand accountable and responsive leadership.
The endorsements, according to the organisers, underscore growing political engagement among Christian groups in Bayelsa West ahead of the elections, with the stakeholders pledging to mobilise their members across the district in support of their preferred candidates.
The groups further urged political leaders to address the pressing challenges of hunger, unemployment, insecurity and rising living costs, saying Nigerians deserve leadership that will provide tangible solutions to their everyday difficulties.