The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has cautioned political actors and religious leaders against using religion as a tool for political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The organisation expressed concern over the increasing involvement of religious platforms in political activities, warning that the trend could threaten national unity, peaceful coexistence and democratic development.

CISLAC urged politicians to centre their campaigns on pressing national issues, including insecurity, healthcare, education, infrastructure, employment, poverty reduction and accountability.

The organisation stressed that religious leaders occupy positions of trust and should not allow themselves to be used to manipulate voters or advance political interests.

It said political campaigns should focus on candidates’ competence, policies, records and plans for governance rather than religious or ethnic sentiments.

CISLAC also called on religious leaders to promote justice, accountability and good governance instead of openly supporting partisan political interests.

The group urged electoral and security authorities to prevent the misuse of religious institutions and platforms for electoral manipulation, intimidation or the creation of social divisions.

It further encouraged Nigerians to assess candidates based on their achievements, competence and commitment to public service rather than their religious or ethnic backgrounds.

CISLAC warned that continued politicisation of religion could deepen existing divisions, weaken democratic institutions and threaten peaceful coexistence across the country.

The organisation reaffirmed the importance of transparent, accountable and issue-based political campaigns as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections.