Catholic bishops in Nigeria have called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the 2027 general elections are transparent, free, fair and credible, warning that any manipulation of the process would be a serious disservice to the country.
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CBCN President and Catholic Archbishop of Kaduna, Most Rev. Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, urged INEC to improve on its performance during the recently held Osun governorship election and ensure that the 2027 elections reflect the genuine choice of voters.

Ndagoso said Nigerians were increasingly concerned about possible manipulation of the electoral process, warning that distrust in elections could discourage citizens from participating.

“Nigerians are simply asking the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC to ensure that it delivers free, fair, and credible elections,” he said.

Catholic Bishops Warn Politicians
The archbishop said INEC must ensure that Permanent Voter’s Cards are easily accessible to eligible Nigerians and remove obstacles that could prevent citizens from participating in the electoral process.

He also praised voters in Osun for turning out despite concerns over intimidation, saying their decision to remain at polling centres while votes were counted showed that Nigerians could defend the integrity of their votes.

Ndagoso urged voters across the country to replicate what he described as the Osun model by obtaining their PVCs, voting in large numbers and ensuring that their votes are counted.

He warned that “anything short of transparent, free, fair and credible elections in 2027 would be a serious disservice to our country,” while urging political parties and candidates to respect the rules of the electoral process.

The Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty, also urged Nigerians to reject voter apathy and actively participate in the democratic process, stressing that citizens must engage in elections if they want their votes to count.