Implications of the Muslim-Muslim Political Ticket in Building Muslim-Christian Relation, Equitable Representation and Peaceful Co-Existence in Niger State

Abstract

The main of the paper is to evaluate muslim- muslim political ticket in building inter faith relations and equitable political representation in Niger State. The paper adopted literature review design to access and discover information that are related and relevant to the paper. Christian-Muslim relations had been a global concern and both religions originated in Palestine. This relationship continues to widen apart, as time progressed under the caliphs, policies were made that were unfavorable to Christians in the process of spreading Islam. Presently, Christians and Muslims continue to manage peaceful co-existence despite differences and challenges. Historically, no Christian has served as governor under a democratic era in Niger State. The 2023 gubernatorial election under the ruling party, APC, had its election campaign slogan as “Sai Muslim-Muslim ticket,” which definitely does not give room for any Christian for the seat of governor or deputy. This portrays an unequitable political representation in Niger State. Based on the practice, the paper recommended: building Muslim-Christian relationship in Niger State through recognition of every religion in the politics of the state, the political parties should over time, ensure that each religion should be involved in leadership roles based on qualification, for promoting peaceful coexistence in the state.