As the this year governorship election in Osun State and the 2019 general elections draw nearer, the Osun State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria has revealed those the body will support as its candidates.
This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of a one-day seminar organized by OSCAN for Church Leaders, Christian Traditional Rulers, Christian politicians, Christian Non-Governmental Organizations, journalists, lawyers and Christian political office seekers among others at the body’s secretariat, Owode-Ede, Osun State.
In the communiqué signed by OSCAN Chairman, Rev. Father, Michael Okodua, and OSCAN Strategic Committee Chairman, Rev. Jacob Asani, the association noted that although CAN did not belong to any political party, but being the salt and the light of the world, it is interested and will support emergence of God-fearing, courageous and effective leaders.
While explaining that CAN is concerned about the economic, political and social wellbeing of its members, the body encourage Christians to fully participate in partisan politics to safeguard democratic values.
It said: “Christians should see the noble art of politics as a sacred task, because whoever is holding political office does so in trust for God and the people created by God.”
Participants during the seminar resolved that CAN must establish Centres for Democratic Governance as platforms for conducting researches and education on participation in politics and Democratic Governance.
Besides, they urged Christians to incubate and nurture future leaders in the order of Daniel and Joseph to avoid democratic casualties and back slidings in the face of political temptations, threat and tirades.
They advised Christians to ensure that they perform their civic responsibilities such as voters’ registrations, voting on the Election Day and ensure that their votes count.
The communique said: “Christians risk being subjected to ungodly legislations and forfeiting our fundamental human rights, which may not be protected or guaranteed as we have witnessed in many parts of the world where Christians do not take part in partisans politics.”
However, they urged Christian political office seekers to repose their confidence in the leadership of OSCAN to guide, counsel and pray for them.
“Political aspirants should not fear because when God promised that He is with us, it includes provisions and protection from all evils,” the statement added.
The seminar was attended by Christian leaders across the federation.
The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, was represented by the RCCG National Overseer, Pastor Joseph Obayemi.
