2027: Traditional Rulers Call for Peace, Unity, Prayers Ahead of Elections

Traditional rulers under the Christian Traditional Rulers of Nigeria have called for peace, unity and sustained prayers for Nigeria and Igboland ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging political leaders to discharge their responsibilities and ensure that Nigerians enjoy the dividends of democracy.

The call was made by the Chairman of the Christian Royal Fathers of Nigeria, Royal Eminence Eze Pastor Nnamdi Ofoegbu, Diawa of Umudiawa Kingdom, and the President of the Christian Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, Eze Dr. Oliver Ohanwe, Paramount Ruler of Isiama Autonomous Community in Imo State. They made the appeal during an interaction with journalists in Umuahia.

They announced that November 29, 2026, had been designated as a special day of prayer for Nigeria’s leaders, as well as for peace and stability across the country

He explained that the initiative was aimed at seeking God’s intervention in the affairs of the nation, praying for political leaders at all levels and averting calamities that could threaten the peace and well-being of Nigerians, particularly the people of Igboland.

According to him, traditional rulers have a responsibility to use their positions and influence to pray for the country and encourage leaders to govern in the interest of the people.

He stressed that democracy should reflect its fundamental principle of government of the people, by the people and for the people, adding that citizens must enjoy the benefits of democratic governance.

The royal father said prayers would be offered for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors and other political leaders across the country, irrespective of their ethnic backgrounds or religious affiliations, to enable them to make decisions that would promote peace, development and national unity.

He added that the November 29 prayer exercise would also seek peaceful elections and a political atmosphere free from bitterness, violence and division.

Eze Ofoegbu said the mission was to seek God’s intervention in the affairs of the country and pronounce blessings of peace, unity and progress upon the nation.

“We have a peculiar duty to pronounce blessings, peace and unity in our nation, Nigeria,” he said, emphasising the importance of traditional institutions in promoting peaceful coexistence and national stability.

The monarch explained that traditional rulers would remain in their respective palaces, just as God remains on His throne, to intercede for the country and its leaders.

According to him, the exercise would focus on committing Nigeria’s political leadership and electoral process into God’s hands, with the hope that the 2027 general elections would be peaceful and successful.

Speaking on political leadership, Eze Ofoegbu said traditional rulers should look beyond political party affiliations when assessing public officeholders. He stressed that leaders who demonstrate genuine concern for their people deserve recognition and prayers.

He specifically mentioned the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency, Hon. Obi Aguocha, whom he described as a politician who remembers his people and remains connected to his home community.

He also acknowledged Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, citing what he described as the governor’s good works in the state.

The monarch said traditional rulers would pray for political leaders and other sons and daughters of Igboland who had demonstrated commitment to the welfare of their people, adding that such individuals would be committed to God’s care.

He maintained that the character and performance of public officeholders should matter more than party affiliations, noting that leaders should be judged by their contributions to society and their willingness to address the needs of the people.

Also speaking, the President of the Christian Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, Eze Dr. Oliver Ohanwe, described the planned prayer exercise as an effort to seek God’s intervention, identifying Him as the supreme authority over Nigeria and its people.

He expressed optimism that the initiative would contribute to peace and stability in the country, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The monarch also commended the Imo State Governor for what he described as his concern for the well-being of Nigeria and Igboland.

He disclosed that the Christian traditional rulers, whom he said numbered about 5,000 across the southern region, would participate in the prayer exercise through gatherings and delegates in different locations

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Eze Ohanwe said the traditional rulers would sit in their respective palaces and make decrees during the prayers, just as God sits on His throne.

The royal fathers expressed hope that the November 29 prayer exercise by traditional rulers would strengthen efforts to promote peaceful political participation, unity among Nigerians and an electoral process free from violence and bitterness.

They urged Nigerians to support initiatives that promote peace and continue praying for leaders at all levels of government as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.

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