2027: No Incumbent Has Automatic Ticket, Catholic Bishop Tells Politicians.

 

The Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, Most Rev. Godfrey Onah, has warned politicians against manipulating the electoral process or attempting to prevent opposition candidates from participating in the 2027 general elections.

Bishop Onah gave the warning while speaking on the forthcoming elections and the responsibilities of political incumbents in a democratic system.

He said the only legitimate advantage available to an incumbent seeking re-election was the opportunity to present their achievements to Nigerians and convince voters that they deserved another term.

“As Nigerians prepare to go through the process of selecting those who will lead us come 2027, the only advantage an incumbent has is that they can point to what they have done and try to convince us that they will do better,” he said.

“It is now left to us to decide, not by manipulating the system or stopping the opposition. Manipulate the system at your peril.”

The cleric stressed that no sitting president or governor was entitled to an automatic return to office, noting that the decision should rest with the electorate.

He warned against electoral manipulation, rigging and intimidation, insisting that political leaders must respect the people's right to choose their representatives.

Bishop Onah also urged Nigerians to defend the country's democracy and resist attempts by politicians to undermine the electoral process or prevent opposition candidates from contesting in 2027.