The Arewa Christians and Indigenous Pastors Association (ACIPA) has raised concerns over what it described as the continuous marginalisation of Northern Christians in the federal civil service, following the appointment of a new Permanent Secretary.
By Chimezie Godfrey
The Arewa Christians and Indigenous Pastors Association (ACIPA) has raised concerns over what it described as the continuous marginalisation of Northern Christians in the federal civil service, following the appointment of a new Permanent Secretary.
In an open letter dated November 6, 2025, and addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Minister of Justice, and the leadership of the National Assembly, the group alleged that a Christian candidate who topped the recent interview for the position of Federal Permanent Secretary was denied the appointment.
The association, in the statement signed by its Chairman, Rev. (Dr) Luke Shehu, said the incident was another example of what it called “systematic persecution” of Northern Christians in federal appointments and promotions.
According to ACIPA, a Christian from the North-East who scored 83 percent in the interview process was overlooked, while a Muslim candidate, Mohammed Musa Isiyaku, who reportedly came fifth with 54 percent, was selected and announced by the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation on November 4, 2025.
“For the avoidance of doubt, despite government’s repeated denial of persecution and marginalisation of Christians in Northern Nigeria, it is evident that Northern Christians, especially Hausa Christians, have continued to face exclusion in employment, scholarships, and appointments,” the statement read.
ACIPA said it was aware of plans to swear in the candidate it described as less qualified, urging relevant authorities to address the matter urgently to ensure fairness and transparency.
“As advocates of peace, unity, social justice, and national development, we reject this travesty and call for immediate correction of the anomaly,” Rev. Shehu stated.
The group further called on religious and traditional leaders, legislators, ministers, civil rights organisations, and security agencies to intervene, warning that continued silence on such issues could worsen feelings of exclusion among Northern Christians.
Copies of the open letter were also sent to religious leaders, traditional rulers, members of the National Assembly, ministers, federal commissioners, media organisations, and both local and international NGOs.
Arewa Christian Group Protests Alleged Bias in Federal Permanent Secretary Appointment
