RismadarVoice Reporters, June 30, 2026
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Nasarawa State, Rev. Dr Sunday Emma, has urged Christians to participate actively in elections, describing the failure to vote as a neglect of civic and moral responsibility.
Speaking with journalists in Lafia on Tuesday, Emma said Christians have both a constitutional and biblical obligation to take part in the electoral process by exercising their voting rights.
He stressed that the association would continue to educate citizens on the importance of participating in elections.
“We will not relent in enlightening people because it is part of our responsibility. We cannot expect positive change without playing our own role,” he said.
Emma appealed to eligible Nigerians, particularly Christians, to participate in elections whenever they are conducted, insisting that abstaining from voting amounts to failing in a civic duty.
“Once an election is scheduled, every eligible citizen should come out to exercise their franchise. Not exercising your franchise is even a sin. When you vote and someone decides to manipulate the process, you have fulfilled your responsibility, and God will reward your effort,” he said.
The cleric also encouraged Nigerians to take advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, noting that there was still an opportunity for those yet to register as voters.
“We appeal to everyone to participate in the voter registration exercise before it closes. Register now and come out to vote when elections are held,” he said.
Emma urged citizens not to be discouraged by the belief that election outcomes are predetermined.
“People should not conclude that their votes will not count or that winners have already been decided. Such perceptions can only change when more people participate in the democratic process,” he added.
According to him, Nigerians who desire better governance must not only vote but also peacefully protect the integrity of their votes.
“If we give up, we allow poor leadership to continue. The consequences are hunger, poor education, inadequate healthcare and underdevelopment. Let us do our part and leave the outcome to God,” he said.
The CAN chairman expressed confidence that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would conduct future elections fairly but expressed concern over what he described as the growing trend of election outcomes being determined through litigation rather than at the ballot box.
“INEC has assured Nigerians of fairness, and we are watching while also praying for the commission. Elections should be decided by the votes cast by the people, not in courtrooms,” he said.
Emma also called on members of the judiciary to remain impartial in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
“Those entrusted with judicial responsibilities should remember that they are accountable for their actions. Justice and fairness are essential to building a nation that all Nigerians can be proud of,” he stated.
He expressed concern over Nigeria’s economic and social challenges, stressing that committed leadership and active citizen participation were necessary to move the country forward.
Reflecting on his tenure, Emma disclosed that he would soon complete his five-year term as CAN chairman in Nasarawa State in accordance with the association’s 2021 constitution, which provides for a single five-year tenure.
He said promoting unity among Christians had remained the central focus of his administration.
“The motto of CAN is ‘That They May Be One.’ Our mission is to strengthen unity within the Church, promote peaceful coexistence and serve as a voice for the vulnerable and all Nigerians, irrespective of their religious background,” he said.
Emma commended Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule for fostering peace and religious harmony, describing the relationship between the government and faith-based organisations as cordial.
He also praised the sustained collaboration between CAN and the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), noting that regular dialogue between both religious bodies had played a significant role in maintaining peace and preventing conflicts across the state.
“We have consistently encouraged our members to live peacefully with one another and with followers of other faiths. Whenever challenges arise, leaders of CAN and JNI engage in dialogue to find lasting solutions. That partnership has contributed greatly to the peace currently enjoyed in Nasarawa State,” he said.
