Popular Onitsha-based cleric and founder of the Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention and Deliverance Ministry, Chukwuemeka “Odumeje” Ohanaemere, has said religious leaders have a biblical obligation to challenge poor governance rather than align themselves with those in power.
His remarks come days after the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, said President Bola Tinubu was “doing his best” to address Nigeria’s security challenges.
Speaking during a church sermon, Odumeje referenced Adeboye by name while urging pastors to speak boldly against injustice, maintaining that political leaders are elected to serve the people and must be held accountable.
He said, “I don’t want to talk to Adeboye; I don’t want to talk to that man. Do you know what they call a pastor? Go to the Bible, a pastor must rebuke a bad government.
“They shouldn’t look to benefit from it. We are fathers in the Lord. It is God who makes my voice heard in the world.
“It’s not because of you. It is for me to tell people the truth about what is happening, not for you. You don’t know me from anywhere. Any time you try to fight for the truth, or speak against the evil government of Nigeria, they will pursue you.”
The outspoken preacher also urged Nigerians to stop applauding elected officials for carrying out responsibilities they were chosen to perform.
According to him, governors, senators and the president are public servants who owe citizens transparency and accountability.
He said,
