WorldStage— The National President of Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, has warned that Nigeria’s unity could come under increasing strain if religious extremism and domination continue to shape political discourse in the country.
The statement by Igboayaka highlights growing concerns about how religious polarization impacts Nigeria’s fragile national unity.
Speaking on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 in Owerri, Imo State, the Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC) National President was reacting directly to remarks made by Islamic cleric Sheikh Yahaya Jingir.
Jingir had publicly defended the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket of President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima, reportedly asserting that Nigeria is primarily a Muslim country.
Igboayaka countered that describing Nigeria as belonging exclusively to one faith ignores its deeply rooted multi-ethnic and multi-religious character.
He argued that when politicians and scholars exploit faith, it fuels suspicion between Christians and Muslims, ultimately making both groups victims of poverty and insecurity.
The OYC leader warned that such exclusionary religious narratives validate and strengthen the calls by pro-Biafra groups for a referendum to determine the country’s political future.
He emphasized that Nigerian voters and stakeholders must prioritize character, capacity, and competence over religious affiliations to preserve corporate existence.
The council criticized the Federal Government’s silence on inflammatory religious rhetoric, warning that using faith to dominate political structures will continue to widen the gaps of national mistrust.
