The Kaduna governor tells religious leaders to caution politicians, saying their own children are abroad while the children of the poor fill the streets.
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani says some politicians are using poor and vulnerable Nigerians to stir up violence ahead of the 2027 elections.
He warned that this could damage democracy and peace in the country.
Sani spoke on Monday in Kaduna at a Special Interfaith Dialogue with traditional rulers and Christian and Muslim leaders.
A Challenge to Politicians
The governor asked the religious leaders to caution politicians who recruit young people for violent protests.
In his view, many of those who urge others onto the streets would never send their own families there. He said their children are in London, Dubai or America. Meanwhile, the young people on the streets are mostly children of the poor.
So he has a question for them. If they want people to protest, why do they not lead the protest themselves, or send their own children to lead it?
Sani spoke from experience. He recalled that he was an activist who was detained by successive military governments, and that he spent much of his life fighting for justice, democracy and the rule of law.
Disagree Without Hatred
The governor said every Nigerian has the right to an opinion. People can disagree, he said, but they do not have to hate each other or stir up violence.
He added that elections always produce winners and losers. For him, the important thing is that the vote is peaceful, and that this duty belongs to everyone, not just the government.
He also said Northern Nigeria carries a special responsibility. It must not be left behind or pushed into crisis during the elections.
Prayer and Regular Dialogue
Sani urged religious and traditional leaders to keep praying for the country and its leaders, so that they will be guided to do what is right.
His government will hold the interfaith dialogue every quarter. That will give leaders more chances to discuss peace and security.
The Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Nuhu Bamalli, also spoke. He said Nigerians should respect one another’s way of life and religion. He appealed to them to be their brothers’ keepers and to embrace an inclusive way of life.
