Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has stated that Nigeria’s greatest challenge is severe poverty, not religion, and called on Christians to stop avoiding politics and play an active part in changing the country.
Makinde argued that Christians should not stay away from politics simply because they view it as dirty or refuse to serve under leaders who do not share their faith.
He emphasised that transforming the nation requires their full involvement.He made the remarks on Saturday in Abuja after receiving a Christian Icon Award during the Christian Association of Nigeria’s (CAN) 50th anniversary celebration.
The governor, who is the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), urged Christians to learn from biblical figures who took on difficult roles for a higher purpose.
“It is typical for us to say, ‘Politics is dirty. I don’t want to be yoked with unbelievers’, and things like that. But we must look at biblical examples,” he said.
Makinde pointed to David, who continued to serve in King Saul’s palace even after God had departed from Saul, despite already being anointed as king himself.
This example, he said, should challenge Christians who believe they cannot work under leaders of different religious beliefs.
“I will use this opportunity to encourage our Christian brothers and sisters across the country to rise up and participate in the agenda to transform Nigeria and reset our country,” he stated.
The governor advised Christians to concentrate on the hardships facing Nigerians instead of allowing religious differences to shape their approach to national issues.
“Our problem is not primarily a religious one. Our problem in this country is poverty grinding poverty,” he said.
“At this stage, we must focus on addressing the issues currently confronting us. Those are the challenges we need to tackle.”