The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has announced a nationwide prayer and fasting programme aimed at promoting peaceful, free, fair and credible elections in 2027.
The initiative, themed “Let Justice and Peace Flow,” is drawn from Amos 5:24 in the Bible.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued in Abuja on Monday and signed by the CBCN President, Archbishop Matthew Ndagoso, and its Secretary, Bishop Peter Odetoyinbo.
The bishops said the programme was necessary as the country prepared for the 2027 general elections amid persistent concerns over electoral violence, rigging, vote-buying and divisions along ethnic and religious lines.
They called on dioceses, parishes, church organisations, prayer groups, families and individuals across the country to take part in the spiritual exercise.
According to the bishops, the programme is intended to seek God’s guidance for electoral officials and security personnel, enabling them to carry out their responsibilities with integrity and impartiality.
They added that the exercise would also encourage Nigerians to shun electoral malpractice and violence while promoting responsible voting and greater commitment to the democratic process.
As part of the programme, all Catholic parishes are expected to observe days of prayer and fasting for Nigeria on October 31 and November 28. Activities will include fasting, the recitation of the Rosary with a procession, Holy Mass and prayers for the 2027 elections prepared by the CBCN.
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 observance will begin 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 to the faithful.
The Mass will be followed by a Rosary procession to the cathedral at 4:30 p.m., with the programme ending with Eucharistic Benediction.
The statement further announced that January 15, 2027, the eve of the general elections, would be observed as a nationwide parish day of prayer and fasting.
The bishops urged Nigerians to reject tribalism, corruption, bribery and voter apathy, stressing the need for citizens to make informed choices at the polls and defend their votes peacefully.
They appealed to the electorate to participate in the electoral process without hostility or bloodshed, noting that the country’s future depends on a collective commitment to justice, peace and responsible democratic participation.
