On the 19th of February, priests and pastors preached peace and unity to their members in most churches in Nigeria. Concerning the forth coming elections, they pleaded with people to be more kind to one another and avoid violence.
Clergymen are citizens of Nigeria and by constitution, are also entitled to freedom of association and thought. They are fully aware of what is going on and are not happy about the alarming situation.
The situation of the country is currently affecting every sector including worship centers. According to Mathew, a Delta state resident “ Religious leaders can’t close their eyes to what is happening because as Christians or Muslims or traditional worshippers, we are all citizens of Nigeria and whatever happens in the country affects everybody.
In most churches, People were admonished to seek peace during this election and abstain from anything contrary to it. Also, church members were asked to not talk carelessly and avoid putting on any clothes supporting any political party/campaign to the polling unit.
Again, people were told to keep whoever they wanted to vote for to themselves. Their opinions and political views should be kept private as people can easily get triggered to hurt other people that don’t share similar views or opinions with them.
Pastors and priests urged church members to leave the polling unit immediately they cast their votes to avoid unnecessary crowd that may cause mayhem. “Evil people are looking for crowded places to throw bombs and cause other types of evil. May we not be victims of any evil situation in Jesus Name.” Pastor Daniel said.
In addition. Some pastors mentioned that there’s place for spiritual and physical activities. One shouldn’t be neglected as both of them are very important. “ it is the spiritual that controls the physical” pastor Biodun said. He added that Nigerians should pray for Nigeria.
“Nigerians are used to laying curses on their country which is very terrible. How many of you will be able to function properly if curses are laid on you everyday?” A pastor in a church in Nyanya asked. He further encouraged Nigerians to speak positive words into Nigeria and people should be hopeful despite the situation on ground-“There’s always light at the end of a tunnel” he said.
Imams are not left behind. They encourage people in the mosque to seek peace. “Islam is a religion of peace” Ibrahim, an Imam in a mosque in Abuja said. He also encouraged other Muslims to remember to pray for Nigeria.
To sum up all the information gathered, clergymen in Nigeria are rendering their efforts and making use of the privilege they have to become ambassadors of peace and Unity. Chief Priests, Imams, Pastors and other religious rulers are dedicating their platforms to ensure we have a hitch free 2023 presidential election. An election that will be free, fair and acceptable to all Nigerians.
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