Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has urged Christians to engage in politics to help transform Nigeria. He made the call in Abuja, shortly after receiving the Christian Icon of the Year Award for Public Service and Good Governance at the 50th Anniversary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). The governor, who is the Presidential candidate of Allied Peoples Movement (APM), emphasized that the nation's primary challenge is rooted in economic hardship rather than religion.
Governor Makinde referenced biblical figures, including Prophet Samuel and King David, to illustrate the importance of Christians participating in politics. He noted that Samuel was raised up to advance God's mission amidst corruption, while David served in the palace under King Saul despite being anointed king. Makinde encouraged Christians not to shy away from politics and governance due to the notion that politics is dirty.
The governor emphasized that Nigeria's core challenge is "grinding poverty" rather than religion. He stressed that the nation needs to address its current issues, and that Christians should participate in the agenda for national transformation. Makinde's comments were made in the context of the CAN's 50th anniversary celebration, which brought together religious leaders, political office holders, and prominent Nigerians.
The President of CAN, Rev. Daniel Okoh, reflected on the association's journey since its formation in August 1976. He noted that CAN was built to provide a strong prophetic voice for Christians, despite past challenges of mutual suspicion and division among different church traditions. Okoh emphasized that the association's diversity should serve as a source of strength rather than division.
Rev. Okoh outlined the church's ongoing public responsibility through the framework of a watchman. He called for critical collaboration between the state and the Church, while maintaining its independence and holding leaders accountable. The CAN president admonished leaders to govern faithfully, protect the vulnerable, and strengthen democratic institutions to make the country great.
In a related development, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged public office holders to maintain a clear distinction between political responsibilities and service to God. He made the call in Abuja, after receiving the Christian Icon Award from CAN during the association's 50th anniversary celebration. Oborevwori emphasized that the pursuit of political interests should never weaken commitment to faith and humanity.
The CAN's 50th anniversary celebration brought together prominent Nigerians to mark the association's five decades of service. The event recognized the contributions of public office holders, including Governor Makinde and Governor Oborevwori, who received awards for their public service, ethical leadership, and commitment to Christian values. The celebration highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration between the state and the Church.
Key points
- Governor Makinde urges Christians to engage in politics to address Nigeria's core challenge of poverty.
- CAN President, Rev. Daniel Okoh, emphasizes the importance of unity and collaboration between the state and the Church.
- Governor Oborevwori stresses the need for public office holders to distinguish between political responsibilities and service to God.
