Muslim Leaders in the Peoples Democratic Party in Nasarawa State have condemned the alleged attempts by some individuals to attach religious sentiments to the result of the Nasarawa State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal verdict.
The Concerned PDP Muslims, led by spokesman, Ja’afaru Ibrahim, made the condemnation while briefing newsmen in Abuja, alleging that there were efforts by some groups outside the state to initiate discussions around religion and the outcome of the Tribunal judgement.
He warned that such moves could ignite undue tension capable of causing unrest.
Recall that on October 2, 2023, the election petition tribunal in Nasarawa State nullified the election of the incumbent Governor Abdullahi Sule of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Tribunal also declared David Ombugadu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) winner of the March 18, 2023, governorship election in the state.
Ibrahim, therefore, tasked politicians from across the board to refrain from using religious sentiment and leaders to influence the legal proceedings.
Ibrahim said attempts to involve religion and religious leaders in the Nasarawa judicial process pose risks of compromising the integrity of the nation’s legal system, undermining the rule of law, and upholding impunity.
He, however, urged all politicians, irrespective of their affiliations, to refrain from inciting an otherwise peaceful people.
“Instead, let us all respect the principles of fairness and impartiality that is the cornerstone of our legal system”.
He reiterated the commitment of the leaders to pray for peace, unity, and justice in the state and nation at large.
“We encourage all politicians and especially our friends in the APC to resolve any differences amicably or by legal means and to respect the decisions of our judicial institutions rather than whipping up religious sentiments,” Ibrahim stated.
He also lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his plans, policies, and promises of reforms, praying for the country and wishing the leaders well in the discharge of their services to the nation.
“We are all witnesses to the fact that on Monday, October 2, 2023, the Nasarawa State Governorship Election Tribunal gave its judgement on the outcome of the election, which nullified the election of Governor Abdullahi Sule and returned Dr David Ombugadu as the duly elected governor of our dear state.
“As leaders, we are more interested in the unity, peace, and security of all the citizens of Nasarawa State irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliations, whether in our party or without.
“However, It has come to our attention that there are ongoing efforts by some individuals, particularly those outside our state, to initiate discussions around religion capable of inflating tension and igniting undue passion,” he added.