A disagreement has erupted between Christian and Muslim leaders in Surulere Local Government Area of Lagos State over allegations of religious imbalance in political appointments.
The dispute follows a petition by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, alleging that Christians are underrepresented in political leadership positions in the area.
CAN, in the petition signed by its Surulere Chairman, James Akingboye and other officials, expressed concern that the situation could affect unity and peaceful coexistence in the community.
The group claimed that out of several key political positions linked to Surulere at federal and state levels, only one is occupied by a Christian.
It described the development as an imbalance that does not reflect the religious diversity of the area, insisting that fairness in leadership must be maintained.
Part of the petition reads: “Our community is composed of both Christians and Muslims who have lived together peacefully and have contributed equally to its growth and stability”.
It further stated: “Equity in leadership must reflect the religious diversity of our population”.
However, the Council of Chief Imams and Alfas (CCIA) in Surulere has rejected the claim, describing it as misleading and not reflective of reality.
The Council insisted that political leadership in the area is determined by competence and democratic processes, not religious affiliation.
It said: “We wish to state categorically and without ambiguity that this claim is unfounded, misleading, and does not reflect the true reality of our community”.
The CCIA also warned against the use of religious platforms for political arguments, cautioning that such narratives could create unnecessary tension.
It added that Surulere remains peaceful and that both Christians and Muslims continue to coexist and participate in governance without discrimination.
The Council reaffirmed its commitment to unity, urging stakeholders to avoid actions capable of dividing the community along religious lines.
