A Call for Objectivity, Responsibility, and National Unity Among Nigerian Leaders, by Yusuf Abdurahim
Nigeria belongs to all of us—Christians, Muslims, and people of every ethnic and cultural background. For this reason, religious and political leaders must act with a high sense of responsibility, objectivity, and fairness when addressing national issues. Anything less risks inflaming tensions and pushing our country toward unnecessary crisis.
Recent public statements by individuals such as Pastor Ezekiel Dachomo and Prof. Joash Amupitan SAN, now Chairman of INEC, have raised serious concerns. At a time when Nigeria is already struggling with insecurity, displacement, and communal distrust, it is critical that national figures avoid exaggerated, selective, or unverified narratives that may deepen division.
In 2025, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, extended financial assistance to hundreds of families affected by violent conflicts in Plateau State. This gesture was meant to alleviate suffering and support peacebuilding. It becomes troubling when beneficiaries of such support later promote narratives that portray the federal government or entire religious communities as persecutors—especially when such claims are not supported by balanced evidence.
Nigeria has faced painful tragedies on all sides. The 2018 killing of Major General Idris Alkali (rtd.) remains one of the most heartbreaking examples of how violent extremism—regardless of the perpetrators’ identity—destroys lives and peace. Yet even in the face of such incidents, many Nigerians chose restraint over retaliation, recognizing that collective peace is more important than collective blame.
This is the maturity we must encourage among all Nigerians.
Our concern regarding Prof. Joash Amupitan SAN stems from his stature as a legal scholar and public servant. A person entrusted with an institution as sensitive as the Independent National Electoral Commission must be guided by impartiality and sound judgement at all times. Public petitions and statements that amplify one-sided narratives about national conflicts—without full verification—risk undermining public trust and international perception.
Ethical leadership demands accountability. It also requires the humility to correct any actions or statements capable of promoting disharmony. For this reason, it is important for Prof. Amupitan to clarify his role in past allegations, offer any necessary apologies, and demonstrate the neutrality expected of an INEC Chairman.
Nigerians—Muslims, Christians, and others—have all suffered from violence. Yet many communities affected the most have shown remarkable restraint, patriotism, and commitment to peaceful coexistence. This should serve as a model for the entire nation.
Let us reject selective narratives.
Let us discourage inflammatory statements.
Let us uphold truth, fairness, and responsibility.
Above all, let us protect Nigeria from avoidable conflict.