The Presidential candidate of the Allied People’s Movement and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has urged Christians across the country to become more involved in politics, stressing the need for active participation in the electoral process to bring about leadership capable of addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges and worsening insecurity.
Makinde maintained that Nigeria was at a critical juncture in its history and required a God-fearing leader with the vision and capacity to tackle poverty, strengthen national security, stimulate economic growth and introduce policies that would improve the living conditions of citizens.
The APM presidential hopeful made the appeal during a Sunday worship service at the headquarters of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), in Jos, the Plateau State capital. He called on Christians not only to exercise their political rights but also to intensify prayers for the country as it navigates its present challenges.
He explained that his visit to the church was not intended as an avenue for open political campaigning but rather an opportunity to fellowship with members of the Christian community, seek spiritual support and encourage them to make decisions that would contribute to building a better Nigeria.
Reflecting on the country’s journey since independence on October 1, 1960, Makinde observed that despite the numerous developments and changes recorded over the years, Nigeria had yet to deliver the desired dividends of good governance to all its citizens.
He consequently appealed to Christians who traditionally avoid political involvement because they consider politics incompatible with their religious beliefs or perceive it as a corrupt environment to reconsider such attitudes and take an active role in determining the nation’s political future.
According to him, the Church occupies an influential position in society and must not remain silent on issues affecting the country. He urged Christians to translate their influence into meaningful electoral participation by turning out in large numbers during elections and using their votes to shape the nation’s future.
Speaking on his preparedness for the presidency, the APM candidate disclosed that he had developed a policy framework known as the Reset Nigeria Agenda, designed to reposition the country through four major areas: security, the economy, education and the socio-political environment.
Presenting the Reset Nigeria Manifesto to the church leadership, Makinde challenged Nigerians to assess his political ambition based on clearly documented commitments rather than campaign rhetoric, insisting that he was willing to be held responsible for the promises contained in the policy document.
“I want Nigerians to be able to hold me accountable, not just through promises but through documented commitments. Everything is written down in black and white, and I am prepared to be held accountable for everything contained in this document,” he said
He further called on Nigerians, especially members of the Christian community, to overcome political apathy and prepare to participate actively in the 2027 presidential election, stressing that citizens must be ready to determine who governs the country.
Emphasising the importance of civic participation, Makinde said; “Please, get ready and participate. History is about to happen again”.
In his remarks, the President of COCIN, Rev. Dr. Amos Musa Mohzo, drew the governor’s attention to the country’s worsening security situation and economic difficulties, describing them as major concerns requiring urgent and effective intervention.
Mohzo also encouraged the APM presidential candidate to remain committed to his political engagements and campaign activities, expressing confidence that the will of God would ultimately prevail in the affairs of the nation.
Makinde’s visit to Jos comes ahead of the APM presidential campaign rally scheduled to take place at Rayfield Park in the Plateau State capital.
