JOURNALS

ABSTRACT

This paper examines the political implications of the Appeal Court's sacking of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang of Plateau State in Nigeria from a philosophical perspective. Drawing upon a qualitative research method, the study argues that religion has increasingly become a tool used by politicians to manipulate the electorate in electoral contests in Nigeria. This has become a problem in Plateau State, where the Appeal Court's sacking of Governor Mutfwang has been seen by many as an example of the use of religion for political gain. In developing our argument, we first consider the current political landscape in Plateau State. The then examines the court's decision to sack Mutfwang in the context of past electoral contests and how religious manipulation has become more prevalent. Using interviews and general observation, we analyze how the electorates have reacted to the court's ruling and their perceptions of how religion has influenced elections in Nigeria. The paper is also anchored on the instrumentalism religious conflict theory which is a political economy approach. The study finds that, whilst the Appeal Court's decision to sack Mutfwang is seen as a necessary step to ensure fair and free elections, it has also highlighted the issues that arise when religion is used to manipulate the electorate. It is argued that politicians must not be allowed to exploit religious sentiment as a way of gaining support. The paper concludes with a discussion of the implications of the court's ruling for future elections in Nigeria and how the use of religious manipulation must be addressed