Nigerians, Christians especially have been admonished to consider active participation in governance a core assignment for each and all.
This was the core of submissions from speakers at the 2023 Democracy Day Programme organized on Sunday by Rhema Chapel International Churches Headquarters under the Apostolic Oversight of Rev George Adegboye.
In his comment, Pastor Adeogun Ajala, the event’s coordinator emphasised that beyond participating in electoral processes and praying for Nigeria, the Church leadership believes Christians must be enlightened about their roles in governance, hence, the reason for the capacity building session themed Citizen’s Participation in governance: Issues and Challenges.
A guest speaker at the event, Folashade Aransiola, Chairperson Nigeria League of Women Voters Kwara State reiterated that as we pray in Church, we must also encourage Christians to participate in politics because if we are not involved, we cannot complain about bad leadership.
Aransiola urged churches to sponsor bills, start movements that cause positive changes in the society and engage elective leaders as part of participation in governance.
Another guest speaker, Honourable Shola Odetundun, Member Elect, Kwara State House of Assembly representing Irepodun LGA dissuaded Christians from referring to politics as a dirty game because it is not.
Hon. Odetundun charged youth to leverage on their social network, innovative ideas to drive change on their spheres of influence and not wait until they win elective positions.
In his comments, Prince Tunji Morounfoye, a former Commissioner for Information and Communications in Kwara who was a resource person at the event stated that as believers, we have much to bring to politics and governance a deeper commitment to justice and compassion which throughout history has made a difference in the political sphere.
The Ira born Prince urged Christians not to refrain from active participation in the business of governance because our God cares passionately about His creation and consequently how the world is governed and wants people to emulate him.
John Paul Bamidele, Founder, Christians for Christian Movement explained that governance is the process whereby elements in society wield power, authority, influence, enact policies and decisions concerning public life, economic and social development and affects all and sundry.
Bamidele therefore urged Christians to join political parties of their choice right from the ward level and be involved in campaigning and lobbying for their choice candidates.
Prayers were offered for Nigeria, Kwara and leaders even as believers are expected to increase participation in governance.
