...Stakeholders Push for Equity, Balanced Representation
A coalition of Muslim vanguards and key stakeholders in Ogun State has intensified calls for the consideration of a Muslim governorship candidate ahead of the 2027 elections, stressing the need for fairness, inclusivity, and balanced representation.
The group made its position known during a press conference where it formally unveiled its advocacy themed “Ogun 2027 – Consideration for a Muslim Candidate for Fair Representation Across Region and Religion.”
Addressing journalists, the President of the coalition, Amir Sanusi Daud, clarified that the demand is not rooted in religious bias but anchored on competence, leadership capacity, and equity.
Daud explained that the initiative seeks to encourage qualified Muslim aspirants with proven experience, visibility, and leadership credentials to actively participate in the electoral process.
According to him, the coalition is committed to promoting inclusive governance that reflects the diversity of Ogun State’s population.
“This advocacy is not a dogmatic call. We are advocating for competence, capacity, and qualified candidates with experience and visibility,” he stated.
He emphasized that the call is a deliberate effort to inspire capable Muslim politicians to step forward and contest elective positions across party lines.
The coalition noted that leadership in Ogun State over the past 34 years has largely been dominated by individuals from other religious backgrounds, a trend it believes does not reflect the state’s demographic realities.
Daud described the situation as one that requires deliberate reflection in order to ensure fairness and a sense of belonging for all groups.
“Over the last 34 years, Muslim representation in the governorship has been minimal. This reality calls for reflection and fairness,” he added.
The stakeholders argued that democracy thrives best when leadership mirrors the diversity of the people it serves.
They stressed that Ogun State’s cultural and religious plurality should be adequately reflected in its political leadership structure.
The group also called on political parties, particularly the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), to adopt more inclusive and transparent candidate selection processes.
According to the coalition, such inclusiveness would not only strengthen democratic legitimacy but also foster trust among citizens.
The stakeholders further maintained that their advocacy is not driven by personal ambition or sectional interest.
Instead, they said it is aimed at ensuring that every segment of society feels a sense of inclusion and representation in governance
They argued that balanced representation is critical to promoting unity, stability, and sustainable development in the state.
The coalition urged party leaders, delegates, and other political decision-makers to take these concerns into account as preparations for the 2027 governorship race intensify.
It also called for constructive engagement among stakeholders to ensure that the process remains peaceful, fair, and credible.
Reaffirming its commitment, the group pledged to continue advocating for social harmony, inclusive governance, and active democratic participation.
The coalition concluded that its initiative is ultimately aimed at positioning Ogun State for greater unity, equity, and long-term progress.
