CISLAC Warns Against Weaponising Religion Ahead Of 2027 Elections
With the 2027 elections around the corner, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has warned that turning religion into an electoral weapon could deepen division and weaken Nigeria’s democratic process.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC cautioned politicians and religious leaders against using faith-based platforms to manipulate voters, promote partisan interests or suppress critical debate.
The organisation said election campaigns should focus on issues that directly affect citizens, including healthcare, education, jobs, security, infrastructure, poverty reduction abd accountability.
CISLAC expressed concern over reported gatherings of religious leaders in parts of the North to endorse political figures and parties, citing reported activities in Plateau and Jigawa states as examples of the trend.
It also condemned alleged threats in Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, where residents were reportedly warned of eviction if they failed to vote for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Rafsanjani said no political party or candidate had the right to demand political loyalty through threats, intimidation or violence.
CISLAC called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, governments and other authorities to act against religious manipulation, electoral inducement, intimidation and the spread of false information.
The group also urged religious leaders to use their influence to demand competent leadership and accountability, while asking voters to judge candidates by their records, policies and capacity to deliver good governance rather than religious or ethnic identity.
CISLAC warned that the continued commercialisation and weaponisation of religion for electoral gain could undermine national cohesion and peaceful coexistence.
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