By Stella Obi
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has directed dioceses and parishes across the country to commence civic education, voter mobilisation, fasting and prayers ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The bishops also declared Dec. 8, as a national day of prayer and fasting for the success of the elections, while directing churches to organise end-of-month prayers, fasting and Rosary processions from October to December.
The directives were contained in a communiqué signed by the CBCN President, Archbishop Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso of Kaduna, and the Secretary, Bishop Peter Olukayode Odetoyinbo of Abeokuta, at the end of the Conference’s Second Plenary Meeting for 2026 held from Sept. 10 to 18 at the Our Lady and St. Kizito Pastoral Centre, Oke-Gada, Ede, Osun State.
The CBCN urged all stakeholders to work towards ensuring that the 2027 elections are free, fair and credible. It also encouraged eligible Nigerians to participate actively in the electoral process and vote for candidates they considered qualified, according to their consciences.
The bishops called for a renewed approach to politics based on moral principles, respect for human dignity and the pursuit of the common good. They also pledged to continue praying for political office holders in line with the biblical injunction to pray for those in authority.
While acknowledging efforts by governments and citizens to preserve national unity despite various challenges, the bishops expressed concern over insecurity, poverty, inadequate infrastructure, poor governance and attacks on human dignity.
They called for stronger security measures, improved intelligence gathering and greater accountability in tackling criminal activities. The conference also urged citizens to cooperate with security agencies and reject ethnic and religious divisions.
The bishops further called on governments to create more employment opportunities, support local businesses and implement policies aimed at reducing the economic burden on poor Nigerians.
Stella Obi is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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