Jalingo Bishop Calls for Church–State Partnership to Ensure Credible Elections

The Catholic Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, Most Rev. Charles Hammawa, has called for a stronger partnership between the Church and government to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process in Taraba State.

Bishop Hammawa made the call while delivering a keynote address at the ongoing Biennial General Assembly of the Jalingo Diocese, held at the St. Charles Borromeo Pastoral Centre.

Speaking on the theme, "Church–State Partnership for Credible Elections in Taraba State," the Bishop said that although the Church and the State operate as separate institutions, collaboration between them is necessary to promote peaceful coexistence and democratic development.

He noted that specialized Church commissions made up of priests, religious leaders and competent lay members possess both the moral credibility and technical capacity to contribute to efforts aimed at ensuring free, fair and credible elections.

According to the Bishop, such collaboration could help strengthen public confidence in the electoral process and support the emergence of governments that genuinely reflect the will of the people.

Bishop Hammawa emphasized that the Church has both a spiritual and civic responsibility to educate and mobilize its members on their political rights and responsibilities.

He explained that beyond preaching from the pulpit, the Church also plays a critical role in shaping the values and civic consciousness of the faithful, encouraging them to participate responsibly in democratic governance.

The Bishop further urged lay members of the Church to actively participate in the political process, describing their role in shaping society as an important duty.

He stressed that the laity must help promote truth, justice and accountability in public life, noting that active civic engagement is necessary to transform politics from a platform of personal ambition into a genuine service to the common good.

Bishop Hammawa also highlighted the need for greater transparency in the electoral system, suggesting that Church structures could assist in monitoring and promoting credible electoral practices, thereby helping to curb issues such as electoral malpractice and manipulation of results.

He clarified that the Church does not intend to take over the functions of government but rather seeks to partner with the State in promoting good governance and democratic accountability.

According to him, when both institutions work together, governance is more likely to prioritize the welfare of the people and promote sustainable development.

The 2026 General Assembly of the Diocese is expected to continue deliberations on issues concerning faith, governance, and the role of religious institutions in strengthening democratic institutions in Taraba State and Nigeria at large.