Rt. Rev. John Oyetola, the Catholic Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Osogbo, has called on the residents of Osun State to engage actively in the forthcoming governorship election scheduled for August 8, 2026. He emphasized the importance of voting, urging all eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to ensure they can participate fully in the electoral process. The bishop stated that failing to cast a vote equates to committing a sin, highlighting the moral imperative he believes voting represents in shaping the future of the state.

During a Mass celebrating the annual Marian pilgrimage in Otan Ayegbaju, which drew participants from across Nigeria, Oyetola stressed the significance of personal accountability in voting. He warned against the immoral practice of selling PVCs, categorizing it as a “greater sin” that undermines the democratic process. His statements reflect a broader concern within the religious community regarding the ethical responsibilities of citizens during elections and the potential impact of their choices on governance in Osun State.

Bishop Oyetola's call to action resonates with a broader push among religious leaders in Nigeria to promote civic engagement and responsible voting. By articulating the spiritual consequences of abstaining from the electoral process, the bishop aims to mobilize parishioners to view their voting rights as a tool for enacting change and contributing to the democratic landscape of their state. This initiative underlines the critical role that faith-based perspectives play in influencing public sentiment and participation in Nigeria’s electoral system.