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A coalition of Christian and human rights organisations under the umbrella of the Christian Youth Alliance of Nigeria (CYAN) has petitioned United States President Donald Trump, the US Congress and diplomatic missions, urging international attention to concerns over the proposed retention of a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in Nigeria's 2027 general election.
The coalition, comprising representatives from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, argued that another same-faith presidential ticket could heighten religious tensions and further marginalise Christians. It also called for investigations into alleged foreign influence in Nigeria's political process and renewed international scrutiny of attacks on Christian communities.
In a petition made available to journalists in Jos, Plateau State, CYAN expressed support for the United States' decision to redesignate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), saying the move had drawn global attention to insecurity affecting Christian communities. However, the group maintained that violence had continued despite the designation.
The petition, signed by CYAN Chairman Zariyi Yusuf Madaki, Secretary Nasiru Jagaba and several other leaders, alleged that recent killings, including attacks in Kaduna State, underscored the need for stronger action to protect vulnerable communities. It argued that political decisions ahead of the 2027 election could have implications for national unity and security.
The coalition criticised the Federal Government's policy of rehabilitating and reintegrating repentant terrorists, calling instead for the prosecution of individuals involved in acts of terrorism. It also urged US authorities not to rely solely on lobbying efforts by the Nigerian government when assessing the country's human rights and security record.
Among its requests, CYAN called on the US to retain Nigeria's CPC designation until measurable improvements in the protection of Christian communities are achieved, encourage inclusive political representation that reflects the country's religious diversity, support independent investigations into major attacks, sustain humanitarian assistance for displaced persons and investigate allegations of external influence by some Arab countries in Nigeria's political affairs. The Federal Government has not officially responded to the petition.
