Femi Fani Kayode has warned that comments supporting the continued use of a Muslim presidential ticket with a Muslim running mate could weaken President Bola Tinubu’s electoral prospects in 2027.
Fani Kayode, who has been designated for an ambassadorial role in South Africa, reacted to remarks attributed to Islamic cleric Yahaya Jingir.
He said the comments risked alienating Christian voters and deepening religious divisions.
According to him, political parties seeking national support should avoid rhetoric that suggests one religious group is less important than another.
Fani Kayode said he had received numerous messages from both Christians and Muslims expressing concern after the comments became public.
He was also critical of political figures who appeared to celebrate the cleric’s position.
The former minister warned that religious identity should not be used as a tool for political mobilisation.
He argued that such rhetoric could strengthen narratives about religious exclusion and provide opposition parties with campaign material.
Fani Kayode said the ruling party would need support from both Muslim and Christian voters to succeed in the presidential election.
He called for political leaders and religious figures to avoid statements capable of inflaming sectarian tensions.
His intervention reflects continuing sensitivity around religious balancing in national politics ahead of the 2027 election.
