2027: Christians must participate fully in agenda for national transformation — Makinde

The presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Mr Seyi Makinde, on Saturday charged Christians to be actively involved in the agenda to transform Nigeria as the 2027 polls draw closer.

Makinde, who is the governor of Oyo State, spoke in Abuja shortly after he was honoured by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) with the Icon of Christianity Award, “in recognition of public service anchored on integrity and faith for the common good of Nigeria”.

CAN presented the award as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations.

Makinde called on Christians to jettison the notion that politics is a “dirty game”, saying it could ultimately shut them out of decisions and the processes leading to governance.

He explained that those with the capacity to serve the country could only do so by participating in the process rather than staying away.

“I am grateful for the honour. But I also see it as an opportunity to call on Christians to participate in the agenda for national transformation.

“It is typical for us to say, ‘politics is dirty. You don’t want to be yoked with unbelievers’, and things like that,” he stated.

The presidential candidate drew on biblical examples, making references to Samuel and David.

He said, “We must look at biblical examples, such as the High Priest, Samuel. You see what Eli’s children were doing at the altar, but out of all that, Samuel was raised to advance God’s mission.

“We should also remember that people may say, ‘As Christians, we don’t want to serve under unbelievers.’ But let us also remember the biblical example of David.

“David had already been anointed and knew he was going to be king, but he had to go to the palace to serve Saul, from whom God had already departed.

“So, I will use this opportunity to encourage our Christian brothers and sisters across the country to brace up and participate in the agenda to transform Nigeria and reset our country.”

The APM candidate also dismissed the belief in some quarters that religion is Nigeria’s problem, insisting instead that the country’s major problem is poverty.

He argued that any leader genuinely interested in rescuing Nigeria must come up with a comprehensive agenda to address poverty.

“Our problem is not actually religious. Our problem in this country is poverty; grinding poverty.

“At this stage, we must focus on addressing the issues we are currently facing,” Makinde added.

CAN honoured several distinguished Nigerians at the event, including former presidents, state governors and the First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu.

Among the awardees were former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon; former President Olusegun Obasanjo; former President Goodluck Jonathan; and former Vice-President Professor Yemi Osinbajo, all of whom were represented.

Makinde led the list of governors honoured, which also included Monday Okpebholo of Edo State and Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State.