Fawaz Adebisi
The Bishop of the Diocese of Egba West, Samuel Ogundeji, has warned Nigerians against succumbing to vote-buying ahead of the 2027 general elections, cautioning that poor electoral choices could prolong the nation’s hardship for another four years.
Ogundeji gave the warning on Thursday during the opening of the 1st Session of the 7th Synod of the Diocese, held at St Paul’s Cathedral, Oke-Igbore.
Addressing clergy and delegates, the bishop urged Nigerians to prioritise competence and compassion over financial inducements at the polls, stressing that the consequences of electing the wrong leaders would be far-reaching.
“As we approach the 2027 elections, we must pray that God will raise leaders who genuinely care for the suffering masses and are committed to reviving the economy, education, healthcare and social systems,” he said.
“Let us not be blinded by money, because if we get it wrong, it will take another four years to correct.”
The cleric’s admonition comes amid growing concerns over economic hardship and governance challenges under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Ogundeji painted a grim picture of the country’s security situation, acknowledging efforts by the armed forces but insisting that much more needed to be done to curb persistent banditry and terrorism. He added that attacks in parts of the North and other regions had heightened fears, particularly among minority Christian communities.
He further linked insecurity to rising food prices, noting that many farmers had abandoned their farmlands due to fear of attacks, thereby worsening food scarcity nationwide.
“Many farmers cannot go to their farms for fear of being killed. This has affected everyone, as it has led to food shortages and made food very expensive,” he said.
The bishop also criticised the state of infrastructure and public services, lamenting erratic power supply despite repeated government assurances, as well as the increasing reliance on costly private education.
He warned that the country’s health sector was in decline, citing the mass migration of medical professionals abroad and the inability of many citizens to afford quality healthcare.
“Our health system is sick. Doctors and nurses are leaving the country in search of better opportunities, while those who cannot afford private hospitals are dying in silence,” he added.
On transportation, Ogundeji decried the rising cases of kidnapping on highways and poor road conditions, describing travel as increasingly unsafe for Nigerians.
Despite his criticism of federal governance, the cleric commended Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for strides in security management, infrastructure development, and pension payments to retirees. He, however, urged the governor to sustain the momentum before the end of his tenure.
The synod, themed “My Year to Give and Be Giving,” and anchored on Matthew 10:8b, also emphasised generosity and compassion, encouraging Nigerians to support one another amid prevailing economic difficulties.
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