Nigeria: 2027 - Nigerians React to Bishops' Endorsement of Tinubu's Re-Election Bid

What the report says

Nigerian reactions are continuing after a group of clerics under the Charismatics Bishops Conference of Nigeria and the International Communion of Charismatic Archbishops, Bishops and Apostles (ICCABA) publicly backed President Bola Tinubu’s bid for another term. The endorsement was announced at a synod in Abuja, with the group saying its support was based on Tinubu’s treatment of Christians in government appointments and broader leadership considerations. The event also had federal representation, as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, attended on Tinubu’s behalf.

The report says the endorsement prompted a mix of criticism and support online and in public comments. Some Nigerians accused the bishops of politicizing religion or being motivated by personal gain, while others defended their right to speak on politics. The controversy also revived earlier debates in Nigeria over clerical involvement in elections, including reactions to the 2022 APC presidential ticket.

In follow-up remarks on ARISE TV, Bishop Leonard Kawas and ICCABA secretary general Chivir Chianson defended the decision. Kawas rejected claims that he was a fake cleric and said he had supported other politicians in the past. Chianson argued that the bishops’ position reflected what they see as improvements under Tinubu’s administration, including governance and economic performance. The broader context is Nigeria’s run-up to the 2027 presidential contest, in which Tinubu is seeking re-election on the APC platform, while critics continue to question the role of religious leaders in partisan politics.