THE CHALLENGES OF CHRISTIAN PARTICIPATION IN POLITICS IN TARABA STATE

Abstract

Taraba State, Nigeria, presents significant challenges for Christians in politics due to systemic biases and structural impediments, which limit their effective participation and lead to religious bias influencing candidate selection, policy formulation, and electoral outcomes. Christian politicians often face systematic exclusion and marginalisation within political parties and electoral systems, hindering their ability to represent their constituencies effectively and raising ethical dilemmas regarding the intersection of religious principles with political pragmatism. This study explored these challenges, examining how historical grievances, socio-economic disparities, and inter-religious tensions shape Christian participation in politics in Taraba State, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of the moral implications of their involvement in governance. Employing a qualitative research design with an exploratory approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with key stakeholders, including Christian leaders, politicians, and community members actively involved in politics in Taraba State. Additionally, document analysis of relevant church statements and political documents supplemented the interview data. Thematic analysis was utilised to identify recurring patterns, themes, and insights derived from the qualitative data, providing a nuanced understanding of Christian involvement in politics. The findings revealed that ethical dilemmas are faced by Christian politicians in balancing their religious convictions with the demands of political responsibilities. Inter-religious tensions complicate the political environment, impacting coalition-building and governance dynamics in Taraba State. Systemic biases and structural impediments lead to the marginalisation and exclusion of Christian politicians within political parties and electoral systems in Taraba State. Findings also showed that strategic mobilisation of religious affiliations and communal grievances during electoral cycles influence voter behaviour and coalition dynamics. Also, allegations of corruption and misconduct among Christian politicians underscore the ethical imperative for transparency and accountability in public service. Recommendations included prioritizing initiatives aligned with Christian ethics, organizing educational programs to enhance ethical engagement, and promoting transparency and accountability in public service. In conclusion, the study underscored the importance of ethical leadership and the need for greater Christian engagement in politics to ensure inclusive governance and societal progress in Taraba State