The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has sounded the alarm over Nigeria’s political trajectory, warning that the nation is gradually drifting toward a one-party state.
In a communiqué issued at the end of their plenary meeting held in Akwa Ibom State, the bishops decried the growing suppression of opposition voices and the intense power struggles by politicians focused more on the 2027 elections than on delivering good governance.
The document was signed by Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji, Archbishop of Owerri and CBCN President, and Most Rev. Donatus Ogun, Bishop of Uromi and CBCN Secretary.
“There seems to be suppression of opposition as Nigeria appears to be tilting to a one-party state. This development is not a good omen for democracy,” the bishops stated.
The bishops expressed concern that many politicians have abandoned their constitutional duties, consumed instead by a desperate pursuit of power, political alignment, and defection, moves they described as self-serving.
“Rather than focus on the common good of the electorate, politicians are strategising for 2027, aligning and realigning, defecting from one party to another, all in pursuit of personal ambition,” the communiqué read.
They warned that this obsession with securing and retaining power has fueled corruption, inefficiency, and the neglect of citizens’ welfare.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the Catholic bishops called for urgent electoral reforms, especially the electronic transmission and collation of results in real time, to ensure transparency and restore public trust in the process.
They also challenged the judiciary to maintain its independence and impartiality in electoral disputes, noting that the integrity of the courts is vital to national peace and democratic stability.
The CBCN’s warning comes at a time of growing political tension and realignments across Nigeria, with many prominent politicians switching parties or forming new alliances.
While the bishops acknowledged the right to political association, they emphasized that democracy thrives on vibrant opposition, responsible governance, and institutional integrity, all of which are increasingly under threat.
