Izbori 2027.: Crkveni vođe mobiliziraju birače, odbacuju politiku novca, zahtijevaju odgovorno sudjelovanje

As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, religious leaders across the nation are intensifying efforts to mobilize voters, reject the influence of money in politics, and call for responsible citizen engagement in the electoral process. The campaign, led primarily by Christian groups, emphasizes the importance of voter registration, obtaining Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and casting ballots based on personal conviction rather than external pressures. This movement spans multiple denominations, including Pentecostal churches, the Catholic Church, and others, all urging Nigerians to take an active role in shaping the future of the country. The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), which represents numerous Pentecostal churches, has launched a comprehensive program aimed at increasing political awareness and voter participation. According to Dr. Sylvanus Ukafia, the National Publicity Secretary of PFN, the organization is working to ensure that its members understand the significance of registering to vote and selecting candidates who can improve the quality of life for all Nigerians. Under the leadership of Bishop Wale Oke, the PFN has established directorates focused on politics and governance within member churches. These initiatives aim to foster informed decision-making among congregants rather than pushing them toward specific political parties. In a similar vein, the Catholic Church has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting good governance while maintaining a non-partisan stance. The Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos emphasized that citizens should engage in the electoral process without being swayed by bribes, threats, or partisan agendas. Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu, the Director of Social Communications for the archdiocese, noted that this approach aligns with the views of Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins and the broader Catholic community. He stressed that the Church has long opposed the practice of money politics and believes it is the government's responsibility to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections. To further these goals, the Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC), a key component of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), continues to advocate for civic education and good governance. Through activities such as election monitoring, promoting transparency, and supporting peace-building efforts, the JDPC plays a crucial role in ensuring that the electoral process reflects the will of the people. Additionally, the Directorate of Social Communications and the Catholic Herald Newspaper contribute to raising public awareness about civic duties and responsibilities during election periods. Recognizing the challenge of voter apathy, the Catholic Church acknowledges that some individuals believe voting has little impact due to past experiences with flawed elections. However, church officials insist that disengagement is not a viable solution. To counter this perception, they are leveraging social media platforms and engaging youth organizations like the Catholic Youth Organisation of Nigeria (CYON) and the Catholic Young Adults Association (CYAA) to inspire younger generations to participate actively in the democratic process. Meanwhile, the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has taken steps to integrate political and governance education into its outreach programs. While specific details about the RCCG's initiatives were not immediately available, the overall trend indicates a growing emphasis on equipping believers with the knowledge needed to make informed choices during elections. This collective effort by various religious institutions underscores a shared vision of fostering a more engaged and accountable electorate in Nigeria.