Lalong tells Christians Politics not dirty game

As the 2023 general election gains crecensndo,  Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong, has urged the Christian community not to view politics as a dirty game.

In a statement issued by his spokesman, Dr Macham Makut, the governor spoke while hosting the northern Christian leaders in Jos, the state capital.

Christian leaders must galvanise the Church and make demands from candidates vying for political offices.

Lalong said this was necessary for anyone whom God gave power, must work for the interest of all Nigerians including the Christian community.

Governor Lalong said that as a governor and Chairman, Northern Governors Forum, he had enjoyed support and collaboration from the Christian leaders within the state and the entire northern region who had to engaged him and other leaders over policies and programmes of government as well as other national issues, particularly as they affected the Christian community.

The governor then proceeded to add that he was aware of the expectation of Christians especially as it related to issues affecting their rights and privileges as well as security and safety within the political system.

He went on to assure them that as a Christian and a Knight of the Catholic Church, he would continue to do his best to protect the interest of the Body of Christ in any position God gave him to serve the people.

The COCIN President, Rev. Dr. Amos Mhozo, who spoke on behalf of heads of denominations in Plateau, Rev. Dr. Yusuf Wushishi, and former Governor of Adamawa State, Bala Ngilari, said the Church must be involved in politics by sensitising its members towards participating to promote righteousness in governance.

They emphasised the need for men of God to always preach peace and douse tensions associated with elections.

They were also of the view that religious leaders should encourage people to do the right thing and vote for who they choose, without intimidation, harassment and coercion.

Bishop John Daniels led other clergy to pray for the peace and prosperity of Nigeria and for the successful conduct of the 2023 elections.

They also prayed for Governor Lalong in his responsibilities as Chairman Northern Governors Forum and the Director-General of the All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council.

(Punch)