The Catholic Diocese of Jalingo has launched a new initiative aimed at curbing electoral irregularities and strengthening democratic credibility ahead of the 2027 general elections in Taraba State. The move was unveiled on Monday during the church’s 22nd Biennial General Assembly held in Jalingo, where clerics, political leaders and key stakeholders gathered to deliberate on the theme, “Church-State Partnership for Credible Elections in Taraba.”
Speaking at the event, the Catholic Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, Charles M. Hammawa, decried what he described as a troubling pattern of flawed and contentious elections in Nigeria. He noted that persistent irregularities in the electoral process have continued to undermine governance, erode public trust and threaten social stability. According to the bishop, the church’s intervention is driven by a moral obligation to promote justice, transparency and accountability in public affairs.
“Our democracy cannot thrive where elections are manipulated or where citizens lose faith in the ballot,” Hammawa said. “As a church, we are committed to partnering with relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure that electoral processes reflect the genuine will of the people.” He stressed that the proposed partnership between the church and the state was not about endorsing political parties or candidates but about safeguarding democratic integrity and encouraging active, responsible citizenship.
The initiative, church leaders explained, will focus on voter education, civic engagement campaigns and advocacy for adherence to electoral laws. It is also expected to involve collaboration with civil society groups and government institutions to promote peaceful participation before, during and after elections. Participants at the assembly commended the diocese for what they described as a timely intervention, particularly as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of 2027.
Several speakers highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between faith-based organisations and public institutions, arguing that religious bodies wield significant influence and can help mobilise communities toward peaceful and credible electoral participation. Political leaders in attendance pledged to support efforts aimed at ensuring transparency and fairness, while urging citizens to shun violence, vote-buying and other practices capable of compromising the integrity of the polls.
Observers say the initiative by the Catholic Diocese of Jalingo could set a precedent for other faith-based organisations across the country to play more proactive roles in deepening democratic culture. As preparations for the 2027 elections slowly begin to take shape, stakeholders at the gathering expressed optimism that sustained engagement between the church and state actors would help restore confidence in the electoral process and strengthen democratic governance in Taraba State.
