The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has declared a nationwide prayer and fasting programme to promote free, fair, credible and peaceful elections in 2027.
The initiative, themed ‘Let Justice and Peace Flow’, is drawn from Amos 5:24.
The bishops announced the programme in a statement signed by their President, Archbishop Matthew Ndagoso, and Secretary, Bishop Peter Odetoyinbo, on Monday in Abuja.
They said the initiative was necessary as Nigeria approached the 2027 general elections amid persistent challenges, including electoral violence, rigging, vote-buying and ethno-religious divisions.
The bishops urged dioceses, parishes, church societies, prayer groups, families and individuals to participate actively in the spiritual exercise.
According to them, the programme seeks divine guidance for electoral officials and security personnel to perform their duties faithfully, while encouraging citizens to vote responsibly and discouraging electoral malpractice and violence.
The statement announced October 31 and November 28 as nationwide days of prayer and fasting in all parishes.
Activities for the exercise will include fasting, Rosary processions, Holy Mass and the recitation of the CBCN prayer for the 2027 elections.
The bishops also designated December 8, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, as a nationwide diocesan day of prayer.
The programme will commence with Holy Mass at 3 p.m., to be presided over by the diocesan bishop. During the celebration, a pastoral letter titled “2027 Elections: Call to Responsible Choice and Action” will be read.
The Mass will be followed by a Rosary procession to the cathedral at 4:30 p.m. and conclude with Eucharistic Benediction.
The statement further declared January 15, 2027, the eve of the general elections, as a nationwide parish day of prayer and fasting.
The bishops called on Nigerians to reject tribalism, corruption, bribery and voter apathy, while urging citizens to participate in the elections and protect their votes peacefully.
They also appealed for a credible electoral process free from rancour and bloodshed.
