The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao has called on northern political leaders to allow a Christian to emerge as Senate President in the 10th Assembly for the sake of equity and fairness.
The monarch, who is also the deputy chairman, Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, pleaded with the northern leaders who are opposed to the arrangement of the governing All Progressives Congress (APC) for a Christian senator to emerge as Senate President to view it as an important need for balancing since the President and his Vice are Muslims.
The traditional ruler made this known in a statement personally signed by him and made available to newsmen on Wednesday.
He posited that such consideration and sensitivity will foster inclusiveness and sense of belonging among citizens regardless of their ethnic or religious background.
It reads in part: “Nigeria as a secular state should consider the multiplicity of religion and ethnics in the conduct of its activities and recruitment of leaders.
“Those to be allowed to lead must demonstrate competence and capacity. The qualities must not be sacrificed at the altar of religious and ethnic consideration.
“I hereby plead with political leaders from the North to allow Senate Presidency to go to Christian Southerner in order to balance ethnicity and religion imbalance. Muslim Senate President and speakership doesn’t speak well of our dear nation.
“This nation is a secular state which comprises all forms of religion mostly Christians and Muslims. I beg our northern brothers to let us accommodate other religions and give them consideration in the position of authorities.
“I also implore the new administrations across the country to appoint more youths and women to work with them in order to tap their energy, brilliance and enjoy a fresh perspective on governance.”
