Nigerian Politics Under Religious Influence says Sule Lamido

By Muhammad Usamat Suleiman 

Former Jigawa State Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Dr. Sule Lamido, has stirred controversy with his recent statement claiming that politicians hold no decisive control in today's Nigerian politics. 

According to Lamido, the influence of religious leaders has now eclipsed the traditional role of politicians in the governance of the nation.

Lamido pointed out that the Nigerian political landscape resembles a football match, where politicians find themselves sidelined while religious leaders take center stage in deciding the fate of political candidates. 

He emphasized that the power wielded by these religious figures has transformed Nigerian politics into a realm where their endorsements can make or break a candidate's chances, overshadowing the voice of the electorate.

In a candid appraisal, Lamido criticized the intrusion of religious sentiments into politics, citing instances where divisive narratives have been propagated, leading to a fractured electorate. 

He expressed dismay over being labeled a betrayer and a non-Muslim during the tumultuous 2023 elections, attributing these attacks to the manipulative agendas of those exploiting religious sentiments for personal gains.

The seasoned politician reaffirmed his allegiance to the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and signaled his intention to remain an active participant in the political arena, particularly with the 2027 general elections on the horizon. 

However, Lamido issued a stark warning, asserting that if the trend of religious interference persists, he may reconsider his involvement in the political sphere, calling for a return to principles-based governance.

Lamido's candid remarks have reignited debates on the role of religion in shaping Nigeria's political landscape, raising pertinent questions about the influence wielded by religious leaders and the implications for democratic processes. 

As the nation grapples with these complex dynamics, the future of Nigerian politics hangs in the balance, poised between the traditions of governance and the evolving forces of religious influence.