By Chukwuma Umeorah

President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Most Reverend Daniel Okoh, has advised Nigerians to refrain from being used by politicians for selfish reasons and electoral violence.

Speaking at the thanksgiving service of the new President of the Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC) ,Nigeria Region, in Lagos, Okoh who was represented by the immediate past president of OAIC, Napo Emuchay, said Nigeria would fare better when good and credible leaders are at the helm of affair.

While commending the efforts of the church in mobilising its members to take active part in the electioneering process, he advised Nigerians to carefully scrutinize the candidates based on their capacity to lead and not to be swayed by greed, religious or tribal sentiments.

He counseled “Let us vote wisely. Do not follow the crowd. Listen to what they have to offer and go for the right candidate. I know Nigerian politics is money politics, they would offer you money, but do not let money cloud your sense of right judgement.” He however stated that the church is not in the position to endorse a particular candidate but will continue to pray and advise its members to make the right choice.

On the recent naira redesign and the new cash withdrawal policy by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and how it would affect the church, he said the policy would have more effect on politicians who have hoarded cash for vote buying and other selfish interests in the elections. He, however, assured that the church was in support of any policy that is favourable to the economy of the country and the welfare of its citizens.

In his remarks, President of OAIC, Nigeria Region, Israel Akinadewo, said the OIAC as one of the dominant bloc of CAN would continue to speak up in the advocacy for a God-fearing leader that would be accountable to Nigerians and able to deliver on his responsibilities as a leader.