Opinion
‘Stop Ethno-Religious Attacks on Atiku’: northeast Christian youths slam Babachir lawal
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‘Stop Ethno-Religious Attacks on Atiku’: Northeast Christian Youths Slam Babachir Lawal
…Says Atiku Is Pan-Nigerian, Not Sectional
You’re are an enemy of the North, during your time as SGF, you have done nothing -Youth blasts BD Lawan
Atiku support Christian more than you, Christian Youth attack Babachir
The Coalition of Christian Youth Leaders and Stakeholders in the North East has condemned what it described as ethno-religious attacks against former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, urging political actors to embrace unity and inclusive leadership ahead of future elections.
The coalition made its position known in a press statement issued on Friday in Gombe State and signed by its Chairman, Hon. Amb. Ibrahim Aliyu, JP.
The group specifically criticized recent comments attributed to former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir David Lawal, describing them as divisive, inflammatory, and capable of deepening religious and ethnic tensions in the country.
According to the coalition, it was disappointed that Babachir Lawal allegedly chose to direct criticism at Atiku Abubakar at a time when Nigeria is facing pressing security, economic, and social challenges.
The group maintained that Atiku remains one of Nigeria’s most pan-Nigerian political figures, with support cutting across religious, ethnic, and regional lines.
“While some politicians promote exclusion and identity-based politics, Atiku Abubakar continues to champion a Nigeria where competence, unity, and equal opportunity take precedence over religion, ethnicity, or tribal affiliation,” the statement said.
The coalition warned against the use of ethno-religious sentiments in political discourse, stressing that such rhetoric threatens national cohesion and peaceful coexistence.
It noted that Nigeria’s progress cannot be built on division, fear, or religious polarization, but on justice, equity, competence, and inclusiveness.
The Christian leaders further highlighted what they described as Atiku’s longstanding commitment to religious tolerance and interfaith harmony, arguing that throughout his public and private life, he has demonstrated respect and support for people of different faiths.
According to the coalition, leadership should be assessed based on the ability to unite citizens, protect their interests, and provide opportunities for all Nigerians regardless of religious or ethnic background.
The group also rejected attempts to exploit religious sentiments for political advantage, insisting that such actions neither serve the interests of Christianity nor the broader Nigerian society.
It called on Christian youths, women, religious leaders, civil society organizations, and other Nigerians to remain vigilant against divisive narratives and work collectively toward a political system founded on fairness, inclusiveness, and equal representation.
The coalition further urged Nigerians to reject any political arrangement or culture that promotes exclusion, emphasizing that democracy can only thrive when every citizen feels represented, respected, and valued.
Reaffirming its commitment to peace, justice, religious harmony, and good governance, the coalition pledged to continue advocating for a Nigeria where competence, character, and national interest take precedence over sectarian considerations.
