A cleric, Apostle Bassey Udosen of Message Point Assembly, Calabar, has warned that the 2027 general election may trigger bloodshed in some parts of the country.
Udosen gave the warning in Calabar during an interview with journalists.
He expressed concern over the political atmosphere ahead of the election, saying urgent prayers and preventive measures were needed to avert violence.
“I am seeing serious bloodshed that is going to take place in Nigeria. I see bloodshed within the states, but I want to pray that God Almighty, in His infinite mercy, will give His children peace,” he said.
The cleric called on churches and Christian leaders to intensify prayers for the country, particularly over insecurity and the emergence of credible leadership.
He also urged Nigerians who were disappointed with the government and the political process not to boycott the 2027 election, saying citizens must remain committed to their civic responsibilities.
According to him, voters should not only cast their ballots but remain at polling units to protect their votes and ensure they are properly counted.
“Vote and stay there to protect your vote. Do not vote and leave and go back home. If it is going to take you the whole day, that whole day is worth sacrificing for. Spend that time, defend your vote and choose wisely,” he said.
Udosen also condemned vote-buying, urging Nigerians not to exchange their votes for food, money or other temporary benefits.
“How many cups of rice will you continue collecting? Some of you will collect 10 cups of rice and sell your birthright,” he said.
He urged voters to consider the long-term consequences of their choices and examine the character and competence of candidates before voting.
On his preferred presidential candidate, Udosen said he would not publicly endorse anyone because, as a clergyman, his responsibility was to pray for all candidates and for the emergence of a leader capable of moving the country forward.
He said the church should remain a father to all and avoid partisan politics, stressing that Nigeria needed a new direction and leadership that would genuinely serve the interests of citizens.
The cleric urged Nigerians to remain hopeful despite the country’s challenges and approach the 2027 elections with vigilance, courage and a strong sense of responsibility.