Niger Christians Demand Deputy Governorship Slot, Protest Alleged Marginalisation

Christian leaders in Niger State have renewed calls for greater political inclusion ahead of the 2027 governorship election, demanding that the All Progressives Congress (APC) nominate a Christian as its deputy governorship candidate.

The demand, championed by the Coalition of Concerned Christian Stakeholders (CCCS), has reignited debate over religious representation, zoning and internal party democracy in the state.

Addressing journalists in Minna, the coalition said its position was not intended to promote religious division but to ensure fairness, equity and inclusive governance in a state with diverse religious and ethnic groups.

The group argued that despite contributing significantly to the APC’s electoral victories, Christians remain underrepresented in key elective and appointive positions across the state.

According to the coalition, the offices of governor, deputy governor, speaker of the House of Assembly, secretary to the state government and chief of staff are all occupied by Muslims, while Christians hold only a handful of political appointments.

Former Commissioner for Information and APC chieftain, Jonathan Vatsa, backed the demand, warning that retaining another Muslim-Muslim governorship ticket could alienate Christian voters ahead of the 2027 polls.

He maintained that Christians were becoming more politically conscious and deserved fair representation in government, insisting that the agitation was about justice rather than religion.

The coalition also urged Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to consider a Christian from Niger East as his running mate if he seeks re-election, arguing that the zone has qualified party members and a sizeable Christian population.

However, the Niger State Government declined to comment on the demand. Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Obed Nuhu Nana, said he was unaware of the coalition’s position, while the APC state chapter had yet to issue an official response.

Political observers believe the renewed agitation could shape political alignments ahead of the 2027 election, especially as parties begin consultations over candidate selection.

Although it remains uncertain whether the APC will concede to the demand, the debate has intensified conversations on religious inclusion, political balance and equitable representation in Niger State, with stakeholders insisting that governance should reflect the state’s diversity and strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions.