Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has cautioned Nigerians against selling their votes or allowing politicians to manipulate them into electoral violence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Archbishop gave the warning on Sunday during his homily at the Holy Infant Jesus Parish, Iddo, Abuja, where he administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to 127 candidates.
Kaigama said Nigerians must protect their conscience and reject temporary financial inducements, stressing that the future of the country and coming generations should not be sacrificed for money or gifts.
Speaking on the theme, “Keep Your Lamps Burning, Be Prepared to Meet the Lord,” Kaigama urged Christians to demonstrate their faith through responsible living, honesty, forgiveness and concern for others.
He said, “As we look towards the coming elections in 2027, let us also be wise. Do not sell your conscience for money, food or temporary gifts. Do not allow politicians to use you to cause violence or hatred.”
According to him, Nigerians should choose leaders who respect human dignity and genuinely pursue the common good, noting that temporary political gains cannot compensate for the future of their children and communities.
Drawing from the Gospel account of the ten virgins, five of whom were prepared for the bridegroom’s arrival while the other five were caught unprepared, the Archbishop said Christians must remain steadfast in their faith rather than postpone doing what is right.
“It is not enough to start well; we must also be prepared to finish well,” he said, explaining that the oil in the lamps represents faith, prayer, love, good works and commitment to God.
Kaigama warned against complacency in Christian living, saying baptism and occasional church attendance were not enough without a consistent demonstration of faith in everyday activities.
He urged Nigerians to embrace honesty in their businesses, faithfulness in marriages, respect for elders, peaceful coexistence and assistance to the less privileged.
The Archbishop also called on Christians to reject fighting, hatred, jealousy, dishonesty and division in their communities, stressing that genuine preparation for heaven must begin with showing love to people around them.
Addressing the challenges confronting Nigerians, including poverty, sickness, disappointments and the loss of loved ones, Kaigama urged the faithful not to interpret difficult circumstances as evidence of God’s abandonment.
Citing St. Paul’s assurance of resurrection in the second reading, he said death was not the end for those who believed in Christ.
“God’s apparent delay does not mean that He has abandoned you. Keep praying, keep trusting and keep doing good,” he said.
He further warned against postponing reconciliation, forgiveness and other acts of righteousness, asking Christians to make positive changes in their lives without waiting for a more convenient time.
“If you have offended someone, reconcile with that person today. If you have been cheating your neighbour, stop today. If you have abandoned prayer, return to God today,” he urged.
The Archbishop, who expressed appreciation to the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Anthony Wulfu, the Parish Council, catechists and church societies for their pastoral contributions, encouraged members to sustain cooperation and deepen their faith despite prevailing difficulties.
He said Christians needed God’s grace through prayer, the Word of God and the sacraments, particularly the Holy Eucharist, to remain spiritually prepared.
Kaigama urged the faithful to continually examine their lives, asking whether their lamps were still burning and whether they were living in readiness to meet God.
He prayed for God’s grace and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary to enable Christians remain faithful and prepared for the coming of Christ.
