The Catholic bishop of Awka Diocese, His Lordship Most Reverend Paulinus Ezeokafor, has enjoined Nigerians to trust INEC for a credible election despite the postponement.

Reacting to the recent election postponement by one week at the Retreat and Pastoral center, Nodu, Okpuno, in Awka South local government area of Anambra state recently, Bishop Ezeokafor observed that while the development must have incurred financial loss for the electorate, they should still keep faith with the electoral umpire, and cast their vote come next weekend.

“The development came to me as a shock and I regret that the situation has caused a lot of financial loss to many Nigerians especially those who travelled from far and near to be part of the process.

“However, in the face of the challenges, Nigerians should not place personal gains above the interest of the nation. They should endeavour to come back next weekend to vote for leaders who have interest of the masses at heart,” he said.

The prelate said that it was better to have a delay and get it right than hurrying through the process and getting it wrong.

While urging Nigerians to see it as a duty that must be fulfilled for the betterment of the citizens, Bishop Ezeokafor cautioned against vote buying and selling which he said is a mortal sin, adding that nothing is worth mortgaging one’s conscience.

He charged INEC to prove their worth by organising an election that would be devoid of rancour and free, fair and credible, noting that Nigerians and international organisations are looking up to them to get it right this time around.

He also disclosed that through his directive, Awka Catholic Diocese has been on special prayers since February 8 for the general elections to be successful, which prayers would continue till the end for the results to be achieved.

The bishop advised against violence which he said has never helped any situation, and that everyone should be predetermined on who to vote for so as not to be deceived at the last minute.