Bishop Yohanna Urges Niger State Residents to Exercise Voting Rights in Upcoming Local Government Elections
Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State and Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, has called on residents to actively participate in the local government council elections scheduled for this weekend.
In a statement delivered to newsmen in Minna, Bishop Yohanna emphasized the importance of voter turnout, warning that voter apathy could undermine the democratic process.
He encouraged all registered voters to collect their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) offices promptly, as the elections approach.
“The 2025 local government elections are just around the corner,” he stated. “I appeal to those who have not yet collected their PVCs to do so quickly to avoid unnecessary last-minute rushes that could lead to regrets.”
The bishop called on Christian faithful to engage actively in the electoral process, asserting that voting is a civic right and responsibility. “I urge all residents to participate in the November 1st Chairmanship and Councillorship elections. It is crucial that we, as a community, determine who leads us at the local and grassroots levels.”
Moreover, he urged Christians to involve themselves in politics, either by joining political parties or by making informed choices as voters. “To prevent voter apathy, let us come out and elect the individuals we trust will serve our communities well,” he added.
Bishop Yohanna also appealed to political parties to nominate candidates who are committed to providing essential services and addressing the needs of the populace.
He urged bloc leaders at both state and local government levels, as well as church heads, to encourage their congregations to participate in the electoral process and to dismiss discouraging remarks suggesting that “votes do not count.”
As the elections draw near, he called on security agencies to fulfill their duties diligently, and implored the people of Niger State to maintain peace throughout the electoral period to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
Finally, Bishop Yohanna urged INEC to promptly publish and announce the locations of PVC collection centers to facilitate access for those who registered online.
