By Stella Obi
The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has declared four nationwide days of prayer and fasting to seek divine intervention for peaceful, free and credible general elections in 2027.
The initiative was announced in a statement issued on October 19 and signed by the CBCN President, Archbishop Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, and the Secretary, Bishop Peter Olukayode Odetoyinbo. The spiritual exercise is themed “Let Justice and Peace Flow,” drawn from Amos 5:24.
According to the statement, Catholic parishes nationwide are expected to observe October 31 and November 28, 2026, as special days of prayer and fasting for Nigeria. Activities will include fasting, Rosary processions, Holy Mass and the recitation of the CBCN prayer for the 2027 general elections.
The bishops also designated December 8, 2026, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, as another national day of prayer. During the observance, a pastoral letter titled “2027 Elections: Call to Responsible Choice and Action” will be read in churches.
The fourth day of prayer and fasting is scheduled for January 15, 2027, ahead of the general elections. The CBCN directed all Catholic parishes to participate in the exercise as part of efforts to promote peace, justice and responsible democratic participation.
The bishops called on dioceses, parishes, church societies, prayer groups, families and individuals to support the initiative, emphasising the importance of collective prayers for Nigeria’s unity, stability and democratic development.
They explained that the spiritual exercise was intended to help ensure that the 2027 general elections reflect the genuine wishes of Nigerians. They also warned against electoral practices capable of threatening national unity and undermining public confidence in the democratic process.
The CBCN further urged electoral officials, security agencies and political aspirants to reject corruption, intimidation and electoral manipulation, while upholding the rule of law and respecting the mandate of the electorate.
The bishops also appealed to voters to shun vote-buying, tribalism and political apathy, urging Nigerians to make informed choices, participate actively in the elections and protect their votes through lawful and peaceful means.
Stella Obi is the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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