Religious figures caution lawmakers not to use food insecurity as a campaign tactic

As concerns about poverty deepen, religious leaders are warning politicians against exploiting economic hardship to influence voters, emphasizing that poverty and desperation should not undermine democratic values in Nigeria.

n

This caution was issued on Monday in Abuja during the National Religious Leaders’ Consultation on Faith and Nation Building, where the need for ethical leadership, responsible political engagement, and stronger national unity was highlighted.

n

Speakers at the event included Cornelius Omonokhua, the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, Joseph Ochogwu, the Director-General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Islamic scholar Sadiq Abubakar, and Joseph John Hayab, the Country Director of the Global Peace Foundation Nigeria.

n

The speakers discussed the responsibilities of religious leaders and citizens during the ongoing observances of Ramadan and Lent, emphasizing the importance of moral values, compassion, and national cohesion.

n

Cornelius Omonokhua expressed concern that economic hardship can make citizens vulnerable to undue influence during political processes, urging Nigerians to prioritize long-term national interest when exercising their democratic rights.

n

Omonokhua also cautioned against the misuse of religion and misleading practices that may take advantage of vulnerable people, stressing the need for integrity and accountability among religious and political leaders.

n

According to Omonokhua, the country requires both personal and national reconciliation to strengthen unity and promote responsible leadership, citing examples of ethical leadership in Nigeria’s history, including the humility demonstrated by the country’s first Prime Minister, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa.

n

Joseph Ochogwu noted that faith has historically played an important role in guiding societies through difficult periods, emphasizing that faith and nation-building are closely connected.

n

Ochogwu urged religious institutions to promote peace and social harmony rather than division, and commended the efforts of the Department of State Services in managing tensions in parts of the country, including recent developments in Kaduna.

n

Ochogwu warned that Nigeria must address growing social and religious divisions to safeguard the freedom of citizens to practise their faith.

n

Sheikh Sadiq Abubakar stated that the spiritual discipline associated with Ramadan encourages reflection, compassion, and social responsibility, explaining that fasting is not only about abstaining from food and drink, but also a discipline that promotes self-control, gratitude, and accountability before God.

n

Joseph John Hayab added that the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent offers an opportunity for moral renewal and deeper cooperation between religious communities, reminding us of shared values that can strengthen unity and support the work of nation-building.

n

Hayab called for greater collaboration among religious groups to promote peace, mutual respect, and national development.