Former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, has emphasized the importance of Christians in government embodying and vocalizing the principles of the gospel to drive transformative change in Nigeria.
Speaking at the inaugural Daniel Taiwo Odukoya Lecture in Lagos, themed “Strengthening the Christian Voice in Government and Public Office,” Osinbajo stressed that values like hard work, diligence, integrity, and respect for obligations are essential for the nation’s progress.
Osinbajo pointed out that the principles of the gospel have historically driven social and economic development in regions like Europe and America.
He noted, however, that despite a significant presence of Christians in high government positions in Nigeria, the anticipated transformative change has not been realized.
He attributed this to a misalignment between the gospel’s teachings and the prevalent focus on material prosperity within Nigerian churches.
Osinbajo criticized the prosperity gospel, which emphasizes wealth and physical well-being, as a deviation from the true purpose of faith.
He argued that the focus on miraculous wealth and success undermines the values of hard work and integrity.
He questioned the source of wealth for some individuals, highlighting the lack of accountability and the church’s acceptance of unexplained affluence.
Osinbajo also called for Christians in public office to be equipped with relevant gospel principles and for churches to set high ethical standards.
He stressed the need for the church to reject unexplained wealth and to emphasize the importance of integrity and hard work in professional and public life.
On his part, guest speaker Pastor Ben Akabueze emphasized the role of Christians in advocating for economic policies that promote fairness and reduce inequality.
He highlighted the Bible’s focus on economic justice and the equitable distribution of resources.
Akabueze called on Christians in government to champion policies that protect the vulnerable and to continue Jesus Christ’s legacy of advocating for the marginalized and oppressed.
While speaking, Toluwani Odukoya, Associate Senior Pastor at Fountain of Life Church, shared memories of her late father, Pastor Daniel Taiwo Odukoya, as a visionary and intellectual with a passion for knowledge.
She expressed hope that the annual Daniel Taiwo Odukoya Lectures would continue his legacy of empowerment and enlightenment.
