***Oyo governor urges Christians to embrace politics, drive national transformation
Oyo State Governor and presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Seyi Makinde, has urged Christians across Nigeria to actively participate in politics, declaring that the country’s most pressing challenge is grinding poverty, not religion.
Makinde made the call on Saturday while reacting to his recognition as Christian Icon of the Year at the 50th anniversary celebration of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
He said the recognition provided an opportunity to encourage Christians to become more involved in shaping Nigeria’s political and economic future rather than shying away from politics because of their religious beliefs.
The governor cautioned against the perception among some Christians that politics is dirty or incompatible with their faith, arguing that such an attitude could prevent them from contributing meaningfully to national development.
According to him, Christians should see political participation as an avenue to bring their values, knowledge and expertise to bear on governance and the search for solutions to Nigeria’s challenges.
Makinde urged Christians to draw lessons from biblical accounts of individuals who served in difficult circumstances to achieve a greater purpose.
He cited David, who continued to serve in King Saul’s palace despite having been anointed as the future king of Israel, as an example of why Christians should not withdraw from public service because of the religious disposition of those in authority.
The governor said religious differences should not discourage Christians from participating in governance or contributing to the transformation of society.
“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 said.
Makinde maintained that widespread poverty, which continues to affect millions of Nigerians, should command greater national attention than religious divisions.
“Our problem is not primarily a religious one. Our problem in this country is poverty — grinding poverty,” he declared.
He warned that excessive focus on religious differences could distract the country from urgent socioeconomic challenges requiring practical and collective action.
The governor called on Nigerians, particularly Christians, to become actively involved in efforts to address poverty and other obstacles to national development.
He stressed that transforming the country required cooperation across religious, political and social divides, adding that Nigerians must prioritise solutions capable of improving living conditions and creating opportunities for citizens.
Makinde’s remarks underscored his call for greater Christian participation in democratic processes, with an emphasis on tackling poverty and placing national development above divisions.
