Christian leaders in Niger State are urging the ruling APC to nominate a Christian as Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago's running mate if he seeks re-election in 2027, arguing that the demand is about fairness, inclusion, and equitable political representation rather than religion alone.

The call, led by the Coalition of Concerned Christian Stakeholders (CCCS), follows months of complaints that Christians have been increasingly marginalized in the state's political structure.

According to the coalition, Christians make up a significant portion of Niger State's population but remain underrepresented in key elective and appointive positions. They point out that the governor, deputy governor, speaker of the House of Assembly, secretary to the state government, chief of staff, all three senators, all 11 House of Representatives members, and most local government chairmen are Muslims.

The group also notes that only three of the state's 27 lawmakers and three of its 30 commissioners are Christians, while Deputy Speaker Afiniki Dauda—the highest-ranking Christian elected official—is not expected to return after the APC primaries.

Former Information Commissioner and APC chieftain Jonathan Vatsa backed the demand, saying Christians had become politically sidelined and warning that another Muslim-Muslim governorship ticket could alienate Christian voters.

Vatsa acknowledged that Christians had previously been less organized politically but said, "It is better late than never. We are awake now."

The coalition argues that former Governor Abdulkadir Kure's administration, which had Christian deputy governor Dr. Shem Zagbayi Nuhu, offered a better example of inclusive governance. They also claim attempts to produce a Christian deputy during former Governor Abubakar Sani Bello's tenure ultimately failed.

Political analysts say the debate has broadened beyond religion to include questions about internal party democracy, zoning, and balanced representation in governance.

The Niger State Government has not officially responded to the demand. Information Commissioner Obed Nuhu Nana said he was not familiar with the coalition's position, while the APC state chapter had not issued a formal response at the time of reporting.

With preparations for the 2027 elections gradually taking shape, the issue is expected to remain a significant factor in Niger State's political landscape.

Christians demand deputy governor slot in Niger State ahead of 2027

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