Politicians across Nigeria have been urged to refrain from heating up the polity through inflammatory pronouncements and speeches as the country gradually moves toward the 2027 general elections.
The call was made by elder statesman and veteran politician, Umaru Dahiru, while receiving an award of recognition from the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), Bauchi State chapter, on Thursday.
According to him, “Recent pronouncements and statements from across the country are not palatable and are not expected at a time like this. Politicians must be cautious and take things easy.”
Dahiru, a former national officer of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), warned that if such statements are not checked, the political atmosphere could become increasingly unconducive.
He noted that tension is already building across the country and cautioned against aggravating the situation further, urging leaders to tread the political path with utmost caution and civility.
The elder statesman also advised politicians to abide by the rules and regulations governing the electoral process, stressing the need to respect the boundaries set by electoral authorities.
Turning to the judiciary, Dahiru, who holds the traditional title of Baraden Bauchi, emphasized the need for fairness in judicial processes.
“There must be fairness in judicial procedures, and judgments must be based on facts, in strict adherence to the Constitution of Nigeria, as amended, and other relevant laws,” he said.
He stressed that the peace of the nation and the well-being of its citizens must remain paramount, sacrosanct, and non-negotiable at all times.
On religious harmony, Dahiru urged religious leaders to promote understanding and tolerance among their followers.
He described the recognition by the CCN as a surprise, noting that his efforts in promoting religious tolerance over the years were not driven by a desire for recognition.
He added that both major religions in Nigeria fundamentally promote peace and coexistence, leaving no room for conflict.
However, he lamented that some religious leaders misuse their pulpits to incite followers, a situation he said must be addressed by the authorities.
Dahiru pledged to continue advocating for religious tolerance, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence.
Earlier, the Bauchi State Chairman of the CCN, Collins David Agbong, commended Dahiru for his commitment to truth, religious harmony, and peaceful coexistence within the state and beyond.
He noted that these qualities informed the Council’s decision to honour him, describing the award as both a morale booster and a call to do more, while encouraging others to emulate his example.
Agbong added that as one of the oldest Christian bodies in Nigeria, the CCN remains committed to promoting Christian virtues and collaborating with other religious organizations, particularly the Jama'atu Nasril Islam (JNI), to foster peace and unity among Nigerians.
He also commended Bauchi State Governor, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, for running an inclusive administration devoid of religious bias, noting that both Muslims and Christians are fairly represented in governance.
Goodwill messages from various religious leaders at the event further emphasized the importance of unity, mutual respect, and understanding of diverse religious beliefs.
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