By ISSAH NINIOLA

In a country as deeply religious and diverse as Nigeria, few things are more dangerous than dragging the name of Almighty God into political narratives. Religion is sacred to millions of Nigerians, and any attempt to use it as a tool for political manipulation should be condemned by all reasonable citizens.

A few days ago, a statement was circulated on social media platforms credited to one Albab Abdullahi and attributed to Barr. Seyi Tinubu, suggesting that he made certain offensive remarks concerning Almighty God and the political future of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. In my view, such a claim is not only doubtful but also deeply irresponsible, especially considering the sensitive nature of religion in our national life.

No political ambition, campaign, or human calculation can stand above the will of Almighty God. Power belongs to God alone, and leadership is ultimately granted by His grace and mercy. Any political discussion that fails to recognise this truth risks offending the faith and conscience of millions of believers.

Beyond politics, my understanding of Barr. Seyi Tinubu is that he has consistently demonstrated respect for religion, faith, and peaceful coexistence. Though he may not attend church regularly, he was given a Muslim name at birth and grew up under the guidance of his Christian mother, through whom he was introduced to the Christian faith early in life. Those who know him personally, including neighbours around him, can attest to the fact that early morning praise and worship sessions are a regular part of his lifestyle. At the same time, he maintains deep respect and a soft spot for Islam, reflecting the spirit of religious tolerance, mutual respect, and unity which he has always upheld.

It is therefore disturbing that some individuals would allegedly manufacture or circulate such a sensitive statement for political purposes. Nigeria is too fragile and too diverse for anyone to weaponise religion in the name of politics. Political disagreement is normal in a democracy, but deliberately spreading claims capable of provoking religious anger is reckless and dangerous.

While Barr. Seyi Tinubu, like many other Nigerians, may support the Renewed Hope agenda and the political aspirations of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, every human ambition remains subject to the will and approval of Almighty God. This is a truth that no responsible person should dispute.

I urge Nigerians to be careful about what they believe and share, especially on social media. Media practitioners, digital publishers, political commentators, and members of the public must verify information before amplifying it. Falsehoods built around religion can do serious damage to peace, unity, and public trust.

This is a time for responsible engagement. Our politics should be guided by truth, decency, tolerance, and respect for all religions. No individual should be condemned on the basis of an unverified statement, and no society should allow merchants of division to profit from religious tension.

In my view, it is nothing but an incendiary fabrication and a political subterfuge aimed at painting Seyi Tinubu in a bad light in the eyes of people of the North and therefore should not be judged by a statement that did not come from him.

The greater concern should be how we protect our public space from dangerous misinformation, preserve national unity, and ensure that political participation remains peaceful, fair, and constructive.

•Ambassador Issah Adedotun Niniola, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Protocol, originally titled this piece, “Rejection of misleading and blasphemous statements attributed to Barr. Seyi Tinubu”.

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