At the close of the 2026 Justice Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) Annual General Meeting held in Abuja, the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria issued a strong call for Nigerians to rebuild confidence in the nation’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 General Elections. Speaking on behalf of the Commission, the Secretary General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo, highlighted the growing erosion of public trust in the electoral process, noting that many citizens have become disillusioned with democratic institutions. He stressed that withdrawing from the electoral process is not the solution, but rather that every eligible Nigerian should register, obtain a Permanent Voter Card (PVC).
The JDPC further unveiled a Five-Pillar Framework aimed at restoring confidence in democratic participation, ensuring the timely resolution of electoral disputes, promoting electoral integrity and transparency, strengthening grassroots civic education and peacebuilding, and renewing pastoral and spiritual accompaniment for citizens. JDPC appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the judiciary, security agencies, political parties, civil society, and the media to uphold professionalism, impartiality, and accountability throughout the electoral process.
As part of its commitment to credible elections, the Catholic Church announced plans to deploy election observers across polling units nationwide to promote transparency and public confidence in the 2027 polls and affirmed its commitment to promoting justice, credible elections, and responsible citizenship through civic education and grassroots mobilization. In attendance were the Secretary General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo, Director of Church and Society who also doubles as the Executive Secretary/CEO of Caritas Nigeria, Fr Peter Audu. Peter Audu, Director of Social Communications, Rev. Fr Michael Umoh, Country Representative CAFOD, Uko Ekott, Directors/Provincial Leaders of different Dioceses, Religious, and members of the Press.
