By Our Correspondent
As Christians begin the solemn season of Lent, a Catholic priest has delivered a strong message to political leaders across Nigeria: emulate the virtues of Christ and reject electoral malpractice.
Rev. Fr. Theophilus Nwodo, Priest-in-Residence at Holy Family Catholic Church, made the appeal during his Ash Wednesday homily in Ologo, Enugu State. Addressing worshippers at the start of Lent, he challenged politicians and aspirants preparing for the 2027 general elections to embrace truth, humility, and justice rather than resort to manipulation and vote rigging.
Drawing inspiration from the life of Jesus Christ, Fr. Nwodo stressed that leadership must be rooted in sacrifice and service.
He warned that the desperation to gain power through dishonest means continues to undermine Nigeria’s democratic growth and erode public trust in governance.
The cleric urged political actors to see the Lenten season as an opportunity for sober reflection and moral renewal.
According to him, if leaders genuinely practice the Christian values they profess, electoral fraud and broken campaign promises would significantly decline. He added that national development can only thrive where integrity, accountability, and unity prevail.
Fr. Nwodo also called on citizens to remain prayerful and committed to building a society anchored on fairness and peace. As Lent coincides with Ramadan this year, he noted that the period presents a unique moment for collective spiritual reflection and national transformation.
His message adds to growing voices from religious leaders advocating credible elections and ethical governance as Nigeria prepares for another critical democratic cycle.
