By Victoria Omini
As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence anniversary, the Senior Pastor of Message Point Assembly, Apostle Dr. Bassey Udosen, has raised serious concerns over the political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning of possible widespread violence while urging citizens to reject vote buying and actively safeguard their ballots.
Speaking in an interview to commemorate the nation’s independence milestone, the cleric acknowledged that despite persistent security and socio-economic trials, Nigerians still have reason to be grateful for survival and national preservation.
“As much as there is life, we cannot stop telling God thank you. Irrespective of the economy, the killings, kidnapping, banditry, and all the things happening, we have to celebrate what God is doing,” Udosen stated, emphasizing that 66 years of independence should be viewed as an opportunity to appreciate the gift of life and pray for national renewal.
Despite his message of thanksgiving, the Christian leader expressed grave worry regarding the country’s political future, warning that the upcoming 2027 general elections could trigger severe civil unrest across multiple states without urgent prayers and preventive interventions.
“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.
Udosen called on church leadership and the broader Christian community to intensify prayers for the nation’s security and the emergence of credible governance, stressing that overcoming Nigeria’s present predicaments requires both divine intervention and civic responsibility.
Addressing voters who have grown cynical about the political landscape and are considering boycotting the 2027 polls, the cleric argued that economic hardship and political disillusionment must not lead citizens to abandon their democratic rights.
He challenged voters to alter traditional voting habits by remaining at polling centers to monitor election results directly, preventing ballot manipulation.
“Vote and stay there to protect your vote. Do not vote and leave and go back home,” Udosen advised. “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 further condemned the exchange of votes for cash, food items, and other short-term inducements, cautioning that immediate relief cannot compensate for the long-term impact of bad governance.
“How many cups of rice will you continue collecting? Some of you will collect 10 cups of rice and sell your birthright,” he warned, calling on citizens to exercise their franchise according to conscience, character assessment, and candidate competence rather than temporary personal gain.
On the subject of political endorsements, Udosen clarified that as a religious leader, he would not publicly back any individual presidential candidate. He stated that the church must maintain a non-partisan stance to remain a spiritual father to all political factions.
He affirmed that his role is to pray for all candidates while advocating for a leadership direction that authentically serves the public interest.
Udosen concluded by appealing to the public to approach the 2027 electoral cycle with vigilance, courage, and a long-term vision for future generations, warning that yielding to voter apathy or electoral bribery will only deepen existing national crises.
