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By PHILOMINA ATTAH
The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has declared a nationwide prayer and fasting programme to promote free, fair, credible and peaceful 2027 general elections.
The programme is themed “Let Justice and Peace Flow,” drawn from Amos 5:24.
The CBCN announced this in a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Matthew Ndagoso, and Secretary, Bishop Peter Odetoyinbo, on Monday in Abuja.
The bishops said the initiative became necessary as Nigeria approached the 2027 elections amid recurring challenges of electoral violence, rigging, vote-buying and ethno-religious divisions.
They called on dioceses, parishes, church societies, prayer groups, families and individuals to participate actively in the programme.
The bishops said the spiritual exercise sought God’s guidance for electoral officials and security personnel to discharge their duties faithfully.
They added that it also sought to turn hearts away from electoral malpractice and violence while inspiring citizens to vote conscientiously.
According to the statement, all parishes will observe days of prayer and fasting for Nigeria on Oct. 31 and Nov. 28.
The programme will include fasting, the Rosary with procession, Holy Mass and recitation of the CBCN prayer for the 2027 elections.
The statement added that Dec. 8, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, would be observed as a nationwide diocesan day of prayer.
It said the celebration would begin with Holy Mass at 3 p.m., presided over by the diocesan bishop, during which a pastoral letter titled “2027 Elections: Call to Responsible Choice and Action” would be read.
The Mass would be followed by a Rosary procession at 4:30 p.m. to the cathedral and conclude with Eucharistic Benediction.
The bishops said Jan. 15, 2027, the eve of the general elections, would also be observed as a nationwide parish day of prayer and fasting.
They urged Nigerians to reject tribalism, corruption, bribery and apathy, and to vote and protect their votes without rancour or bloodshed. (NAN)
