Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has called for intensified prayers and peacebuilding efforts ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning Nigerians against a repeat of the political tension witnessed in the build-up to the recent Osun governorship election.
Adeleke made the call in Osogbo while receiving Catholic bishops attending the second plenary meeting of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN).
The governor said the experience in Osun had demonstrated how quickly political disagreements could threaten peace during an electoral period, stressing the need for religious institutions, political leaders and citizens to work together to safeguard the 2027 polls.
He urged the Catholic Church to deploy its influence in promoting responsible political conduct and peaceful participation as political activities intensify ahead of the next general election.
According to Adeleke, the church’s role should go beyond prayers to include continued efforts toward electoral peacebuilding and national stability.
He recalled the political challenges his administration faced, describing his emergence as the outcome of a difficult political battle in which he believed divine intervention played a major role.
Adeleke said he had chosen not to pursue revenge after overcoming the political challenges, insisting that his focus remained on thanksgiving and service to the people.
The governor also acknowledged the support of Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, whom he described as a witness to the difficult period.
He appealed to Nigerians to learn from the experience of Osun and ensure that political competition in 2027 does not degenerate into conflict.
Adeleke expressed optimism that with prayers, responsible leadership and cooperation among stakeholders, Nigeria could achieve a peaceful and credible 2027 general election.
The CBCN’s second plenary meeting, which commenced on September 10, 2026, is scheduled to end on September 18.
