The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has expressed confidence that conducting elections in the country will help rebuild the trust of both the people and the international community.
The call was made on Sunday, September 13, 2026, by the CBCN and the Archbishop of the Kaduna Catholic Archdiocese, Most Rev. Matthew Ndagoso, during his address at the opening session of the CBCN’s second plenary meeting in Osogbo, Osun State.
“A credible electoral process would help restore public confidence and place Nigeria on the path of international respect and integrity,” he insisted.
Archbishop Ndagoso warned that the lack of a transparent election would put the country in disrepute.
Emeritus Archbishop of Ibadan, Most Rev. Alaba Job, the Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Adewale Martins, and the CBCN President and Archbishop of Kaduna, Most Rev. Matthew Ndagoso. Credit Archbishop Ignatius A. Kaigama.
“Anything short of transparent, free, fair and credible elections in 2027 would be a serious disservice to our country,” he stated.
On the outcome of the recent Osun State off-season election, which observers and analysts adjudged as free and fair, the Prelate maintained that “What happened in Osun elections has given a glimmer of hope and confidence to many Nigerians. We hope it is a good sign of better things to come in the 2027 General Elections.”
He used the occasion to caution against vote-buying while warning against cronyism and cynical behaviour.
“We call upon and encourage our lay faithful and indeed all people of goodwill to reject vote-selling and buying, and resist the temptation of political cronyism and cynicism,” Ndagoso said.
The Catholic Bishops treated to Yoruba drums. Credit Archbishop Ignatius A. Kaigama.
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, represented by his deputy, Kola Adewusi, commended the Catholic Church for its contributions to education, healthcare, human development, and peace-building in Nigeria.
He also urged the church to intensify prayers for a peaceful and successful 2027 general election, emphasizing that electoral peace would require both civic responsibility and divine intervention.
Hosted by the Dioceses of the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province—Ibadan, Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, Ilorin, and Oshogbo—the weeklong second plenary features prayer, reflection, talks, workshops and entertainment. Church Fathers connect with various groups within the Church, including women, youth, and leaders of different sodalities.
