Human rights activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has criticised what he described as the renewed use of religious platforms and sentiments for political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Adeyanju, in a statement issued on Tuesday and made available to the Daily Independent, warned politicians against turning churches and other places of worship into campaign grounds.
He said the increasing intersection of religion and partisan politics could further deepen divisions in the country if not checked.
The activist specifically faulted what he described as the alleged renewed patronage of churches by Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election.
Adeyanju argued that Nigeria should not return to what he described as the religious mobilisation that polarised citizens during the 2023 general election.
He, however, stressed that the same standard should apply to all political actors, regardless of their political parties or interests.
According to him, elections should be based on ideas, policies and competing visions for the development of Nigeria rather than the exploitation of religious sentiments.
“Elections should be about ideas, policies and competing visions for Nigeria. Religion and politics should never be allowed to become instruments of division.
“The church is not a place for political campaigns or political gimmicks, and politicians are not pastors,” he said.
Adeyanju also appealed to pastors and other religious leaders to resist attempts by politicians to use places of worship for campaigns or to seek political endorsements.
He warned that allowing partisan political activities in churches could undermine the sanctity of worship centres and weaken the moral authority of religious leaders.
“Pastors and religious leaders should stop giving politicians platforms to campaign or seek endorsements in church,” he maintained.
Adeyanju said political actors should focus on presenting credible policies and practical solutions to the country’s challenges as the 2027 elections approach.
