Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has urged the church in Nigeria to take a frontline role in combating vote-buying, electoral violence, intimidation and misinformation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Abiodun made the appeal at the 15th General Synod of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, held at Our Saviour’s Anglican Church, Ikenne.
The governor urged Christian leaders to use their influence to promote responsible citizenship, peaceful political participation and issue-based campaigns. He said political actors must focus on their ideas, programmes, and vision instead of exploiting ethnic, religious, or other divisive sentiments.
"Considering the vulnerability of our young people to crime, substance abuse, fraud and extremism, we also encouraged the Church to strengthen its moral guidance and support them in channelling their talents and energy into productive ventures," he said.
Abiodun noted that the Synod’s theme, “The Priesthood of All Believers: Equipping God’s People for the Work of Ministry,” reminds us that faith must be translated into service, compassion, peacebuilding and support for vulnerable people. He said true development must be measured not only by roads, investments and buildings, but also by transformed lives, strengthened families and opportunities created.
"Earlier, at the dedication of the Emmanuel and Victoria Abiodun Hall at St. James’ Anglican Church, Iperu, we reaffirmed our commitment to integrity, selfless service and education, the enduring values instilled in us by our parents.
"We will continue to choose integrity over convenience, service over self-interest, compassion over indifference and unity over division. We remain committed to serving the people of Ogun State faithfully until the end of our administration," the governor said.
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