Catholic Secretariat Advocates Competence Over Ethnicity for 2027 Elections

The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) called on Nigerians to prioritize competence, integrity, character, and track record over ethnic considerations when selecting political leaders for the 2027 general elections. This appeal was made by Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo, Secretary-General of the CSN and Chaplain of St Gabriel Catholic Chaplaincy in Durumi, during a Holy Mass marking the chaplaincy’s patronal feast of St Gabriel the Archangel.

Banjo highlighted the importance of unity amidst Nigeria's diverse ethnic backgrounds, urging voters to evaluate candidates based on their records and capabilities rather than ethnic identity. He warned against ethnic favoritism and emphasized that the challenges facing Nigerians, such as hunger and unemployment, transcend ethnic boundaries.

Banjo linked responsible citizenship to the Gospel reading from Matthew 21:28-32, asserting that Christians have a duty to engage in the electoral process as part of their commitment to societal transformation.