Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Nasarawa State, Rev. Dr. Sunday Emma, has urged Christians to actively participate in elections, describing the failure to vote as a sin against God and a dereliction of civic duty. Speaking with journalists in Lafia on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, while reflecting on recent elections, including the Nasarawa bye-election, Emma said Christians have both a biblical and civic responsibility to obey constituted authority by exercising their voting rights.
The cleric stressed that participating in elections is not optional for believers. "We will not get tired of enlightening people because that is one of the responsibilities entrusted to us. We cannot sit back and expect the right thing to happen without playing our part," he said. "Once an election is scheduled, you are expected to go out and exercise your franchise. Not exercising your franchise is even a sin, and that must be understood."
Emma encouraged Nigerians, especially Christians, to take advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), urging those yet to register to do so before the exercise ends. He also advised citizens not to be discouraged by the belief that their votes would not count, insisting that greater participation could help improve the electoral process. "If we give up, we are allowing the wrong things to continue. When bad leadership persists, the consequences are complaints, hunger, poor education, inadequate healthcare and underdevelopment," he said.
The CAN chairman urged voters to peacefully protect the sanctity of their votes while expressing confidence that INEC would conduct credible elections. However, he lamented the growing trend of election outcomes being determined in court rather than at polling units. "Elections should be decided by the votes cast by the people," he stated, while also calling on members of the judiciary to remain impartial and ensure justice prevails.
Emma's remarks come at a time when Nigeria's electoral body, the Independent National Electoral Commission, is intensifying voter education efforts ahead of the 2027 general elections. The CVR exercise has been ongoing across the country, with INEC encouraging eligible Nigerians to register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the next electoral cycle. However, voter apathy has remained a persistent challenge, with many Nigerians expressing disillusionment over the integrity of past elections.
The CAN chairman's call to action underscores the critical role religious institutions can play in mobilising citizens for civic engagement, particularly in a country where faith leaders hold significant influence over their congregations. By framing participation in elections as a moral and spiritual obligation, Emma has issued a powerful challenge to Christians to take ownership of the democratic process and help shape the future of Nigeria.
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