‘Violence doesn’t know Christians, Muslims’ – APC Chair, Yilwatda issues caution
APC Chairman Urges Unity Among Religious Groups Ahead of 2027 Elections
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has issued a warning to Christians and Muslims to avoid violence as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general election.
During his address at the Muslim World League (JIBWIS) International Security Conference, themed “Advancing Peaceful Coexistence,” Yilwatda emphasized the destructive power of violence, which he said affects all Nigerians, regardless of faith.
Reflecting on personal experiences, he noted that his father’s closest friend was a Muslim Chief Imam, highlighting the importance of unity among different religious communities.
“I feel privileged to be invited to this conference that speaks directly to the issues concerning our nation, our peace, unity, and the future of our country,” Yilwatda stated. “For every Nigerian, diversity is not a distant concept; it’s what we experience every day, positively or negatively.”
He continued, “We are a nation of different faiths. I’m a Christian, and many here are Muslims. I have brothers and relations who are Muslims, and we must find a way to coexist.”
Yilwatda posed a critical question regarding national identity: “What kind of nation are we building by the way we live our lives?”
He warned that violence does not discriminate by religion, stating, “When violence comes, it doesn’t ask whether you are Christian or Muslim before it destroys your home, humanity, or dignity.”
The chairman concluded with a call for collaboration: “We may worship differently, but we suffer together, can build together, and ultimately, we can rise and fall together. The foolishness that creates division does not ultimately spare anyone.”
