Security agencies have been urged to monitor politicians with divisive tendencies, following allegations against House of Representatives aspirant, Mathias Ezeaku.

The call was made on Wednesday in a statement by Concerned Uzo-Uwani Youths, following the actions of Mr Ezeaku, who is aspiring to represent Igbo-Etiti/Uzo-Uwani federal constituency.

Leader of the group, Chukwuma Obinna, alleged that Mr Ezeaku made inflammatory comments against Christianity and other religions.

“Ezeaku’s public utterances threatens peaceful coexistence in the constituency,” he said.

Mr Obinna alleged that viral videos and public reports showed Mr Ezeaku criticising Christian leaders and doctrines, including the reported burning of religious items.

He said security agencies should closely monitor such individuals because of their statements capable of inciting religious hatred and unrest as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections intensified.

“The Igbo-Etiti/Uzo-Uwani federal constituency is made up of peace-loving people from different religious backgrounds, including Christians, Muslims and traditional worshippers.

“Any individual with a history of intolerance and divisive rhetoric should not be entrusted with political leadership. Electing leaders with controversial religious views could heighten tension and deepen division within the constituency.

“We are worried that someone who consistently attacks Christianity and ridicules other beliefs may use public office to promote religious hostility,” Mr Obinna said.

He said Mr Ezeaku’s philosophy contradicted the ideals of the Nigeria Democratic Congress’ presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

According to him, Mr Obi believes in the church’s role in promoting education, healthcare and moral development within society.

“The philosophy of Mathias Ezeaku cannot align with that of Peter Obi and the NDC,” he said.

Mr Obinna urged political parties to screen aspirants thoroughly and ensure only candidates with records of tolerance and peaceful engagement emerged for the elections.

He also advised politicians to focus on issue-based campaigns and avoid rhetoric capable of threatening peace and national unity.

However, Mr Ezeaku said those against him were only trying to use propaganda to get him out of the way for their selfish political gains.

“I am exercising my right as Christians in Uzo-Uwani have been destroying our tradition and setting it ablaze. They have been burning and destroying our culture and way of life. The ‘ofo, shrines and Ikenga’ have been destroyed.

“These cultural practices have existed for centuries and remain part of our tradition, culture and way of life. They represent who we are as a people.

“Anybody telling you otherwise is only pushing propaganda to sound innocent in their political career ahead of the election,” Mr Ezeaku said.

(NAN)