Most Rev Dr Yohanna Warns Political Silence Could Cost Christians Their Rights

The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Niger State, Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, has urged Christians to become more active in politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Yohanna gave the advice while speaking with journalists in Minna. He urged eligible Christians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and participate in the electoral process.

He warned that continued political apathy could worsen what he described as the marginalisation of Christians in the state. According to him, Christians must take part in politics rather than remain silent over issues that affect them.

The CAN chairman, who also serves as Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora, said politics should not revolve around individuals. He called on Christian groups and individuals to participate in the process and make informed choices at the polls.

Yohanna expressed concern about what he described as disparities in political appointments and selections. He also cited insecurity as another reason Christians should become more involved in governance.

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He urged Christians to consult among themselves and consider contesting elective positions. He said active participation would give them a stronger voice in political affairs.

Yohanna also cautioned Christians against viewing non-participation as a form of protest. He argued that citizens who refuse to vote would have limited grounds to complain about the government that emerges from an election.

He said the Christian community in Niger State had established five blocs covering the state’s 25 local government areas. According to him, coordinators hold meetings and seminars to educate members about political developments and the need for greater participation.

The cleric said mobilisation efforts were already taking place through churches, meetings and other gatherings. He therefore encouraged eligible Christians to obtain their PVCs before the elections.

Yohanna stressed that prayer should go alongside civic participation. He said Christians should combine their prayers with voting if they want to influence the outcome of elections.

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Also speaking, 87-year-old Peterson Kaura, a retired civil servant and former Chairman of the Niger State Local Government Service Commission, urged Christian youths to reject the belief that politics is inherently dirty.

Kaura argued that individuals involved in politics determine how the system is perceived. He encouraged Christian youths to enter politics and contribute positively rather than remain outside the process and complain about its outcome.

The retired elder urged Christian youths to contest elections from the ward level to the state and federal levels. He said their involvement could help promote honesty, transparency and service in governance.

Kaura also called on political leaders at all levels to govern for the benefit of every citizen. He urged them to serve people fairly, regardless of how they voted during elections.

source: Daily Post