President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Christian leaders to use their moral authority to prevent vote-buying, hate speech and ethnic incitement ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
Speaking through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, at the 12th Synod of the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, Tinubu warned that elections must not become a “war for survival” or a tool for deepening religious and ethnic divisions.
The President called on churches and other religious institutions to partner with government on youth empowerment, education, peacebuilding, civic responsibility and humanitarian services.
He said religious leaders had a critical role to play in preventing electoral violence as Nigerians prepare for the presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for January and February 2027.
The administration also highlighted security measures, including the recruitment of more than 50,000 police officers and the establishment of four new army divisions to protect lives and property.
At thesame conference, the Minister of Information and National Orientation similarly appealed to pastors, bishops and other clerics to promote national unity and responsible citizenship.
He cautioned religious leaders against allowing their platforms to become channels for ethnic or religious propaganda.
The Minister said the government’s economic reforms, though difficult for citizens, were beginning to produce results, pointing to foreign reserves of more than $54 billion, reportedly the highest level in about 18 years.
He also cited the elimination of approximately 1,000 terrorists, including some senior commanders, during the first quarter of 2026, as well as the rescue of 308 abducted Nigerians in August through intelligence-led operations.
Both officials acknowledged the hardship caused by ongoing reforms but maintained that the measures were intended to deliver long-term economic stability, better infrastructure, affordable food and improved living standards.
The Minister further warned Nigerians against using social media to spread fake news, hatred and bigotry, urging citizens to verify information before sharing it.
“No Nigerian should be attacked, threatened, or discriminated against because of his or her faith,” he said.
With the 2027 elections approaching, the government said the country’s religious institutions would be central to protecting peace, strengthening democracy and ensuring that political differences do not degenerate into violence.
