The Catholic Bishops of Nigeria have launched a nationwide campaign of prayer and fasting, calling for free, fair, and peaceful elections ahead of the country’s upcoming polls. Speaking on behalf of the Episcopal Conference in an interview with Vatican Media, Father Michael Banjo, Secretary General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, emphasized that the Church’s primary concern is ensuring citizens can freely elect their leaders without fear or manipulation.
The call for peace comes against a backdrop of escalating violence across the nation. Recent tragic events include an attack on October 23 in Binnari, Taraba State, where armed assailants killed 62 people; an ambush on a military convoy in Gamboru on October 17 that claimed 15 lives; and an October 10 attack on a commercial convoy in Zamfara State that left around 20 dead. Despite these severe security challenges, Nigeria is preparing for presidential and legislative elections scheduled for January 16, 2027, followed by state governorship and assembly elections in February. With over 103 million registered voters, civil society organizations are also mobilizing thousands of observers to monitor electoral integrity.
In response to electoral violence, vote-buying, and political divisions, the Bishops have organized three days of nationwide prayer and fasting under the theme “Let Justice and Peace Flow,” inspired by Amos 5:24. Parishes, dioceses, and families across Nigeria are participating through daily Masses, Rosary recitations, special prayers, and public processions where security allows. Father Banjo noted that prayer and fasting serve to deepen repentance, foster self-discipline, and promote responsible civic participation.
The Bishops have appealed directly to electoral officials, security forces, and the judiciary to maintain strict impartiality, while urging political candidates to prioritize the common good over personal ambition. Emphasizing that the Church does not endorse any candidate or party, the Secretariat affirmed that peace must be built on fairness and respect for the people’s will. Although high living costs, corruption, and political frustration have left many citizens cautious, the Church maintains hope that the elections will yield accountable leadership genuinely chosen by the public.