Niger: 'Go and Vote' - Bishops Concerned Over Political Apathy Among Majority of Nigerians

As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, its bishops are intensifying their calls for citizens to actively engage in the electoral process. Bishop Dauwa Yohanna, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State, emphasized the importance of voting, stating that failing to do so is not a form of protest but surrender. He urged Christians to obtain their voter cards and vote for their preferred candidates, warning that not voting forfeits the right to complain about political issues.

Monsignor Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the 2027 elections are of paramount importance. He highlighted the deteriorating state of the nation due to poor leadership, which has led to neglect, lack of accountability, economic decline, religious tensions, insecurity, kidnappings, and loss of life. Ndagoso expressed concern over the decline in political participation, citing statistics from the 2023 presidential election.

According to INEC, only 37.39% of Nigerians were registered to vote, and just 3.52% of the population actually cast their ballots. The candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) won with 8,794,726 votes, indicating that the majority of voters did not participate. Ndagoso warned that increasing disengagement from the electoral process could lead to more frustration and potentially even protests, especially among younger generations.

He urged Nigerians to find the courage to vote, emphasizing that it is a fundamental duty of every citizen and the way to participate in civil society.