2027: Christian group unveils plan to engage candidates, voters - Punch Newspapers

The Organisation of African Instituted Churches says it will engage political actors ahead of the 2027 general elections and support candidates with what it considers the most convincing roadmaps at various levels of governance. The OAIC Regional President, Baba Aladura Israel Akinadewo, disclosed this at the just-concluded third-quarter Regional Executive Committee meeting of the organisation in Orile-Igbon, Oyo State. Akinadewo, who presided over the meeting attended by delegates from the six zones, 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, also encouraged members to participate actively in the 2027 general elections. The organisation, in a release shared with PUNCH Online on Friday, however, emphasised its non-partisan position in secular politics. “While emphasising the non-partisanship of the faith-based organisation in secular politics, the President reiterated that OAIC will engage political gladiators in ensuring that the candidates with the most preferred and convincing roadmap is supported at the various levels of governance,” the statement said. The meeting also focused on leadership under pressure, with the OAIC describing pressure as inevitable in leadership but saying it could serve as a catalyst for purposeful leadership. Akinadewo said coping with pressure depended on knowing what to do in difficult circumstances. Using the biblical account in Matthew 26:31-35, he said the experience of Peter, who denied Jesus Christ despite his earlier confidence, showed how pressure could expose a person’s character. Makinde names new advisory council members, other aides Makinde renews wage award, transport subsidy for Oyo workers 2027: SDP pledges to rebuild, transform Nigeria if elected “Pressure reveals what is truly inside us. He added, “Leadership is not proven by what we say when everything is comfortable but by how we respond when our convictions, courage, and character are challenged,” Akinadewo said. The OAIC president, an Associate Professor of Accounting, said leaders should build their character before crises arise through prayer, Scripture, discipline, wise counsel and a strong relationship with God. The meeting brought together representatives of member churches, including Christ Holy Church, Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim and Seraphim, Motailatu Church Cherubim and Seraphim Worldwide, Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church and Sacred Cherubim and Seraphim. Chairmen of the OAIC from the six zones and states, including the FCT, as well as representatives of the Youth Department and Women and Children Department, also participated in discussions on the organisation’s responsibilities in the 2027 elections. The Acting Baba Aladura of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church, Most Snr Special Apostle/Pastor Gabriel Olayinka Kassim, was represented at the meeting by senior members of the church. The OAIC president also announced plans to mark the organisation’s Golden Jubilee in 2027, including a proposed leadership retreat in the United Kingdom. The meeting further called on the government to do more to address insecurity in the country. Tosin Oyediran Tosin Oyediran is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over eight years of professional experience in reporting and storytelling. He is known for conducting incisive interviews and producing compelling human-angle stories that bring clarity and depth to the news. Tosin covers a broad range of beats including politics, health, advocacy, sports, and entertainment, with a strong focus on people-centred reporting. His work reflects firsthand newsroom experience, editorial insight, and a commitment to accurate, engaging, and trustworthy journalism.

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The Punch Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now!

Stay in the know—fast. Get instant alerts, breaking headlines, and exclusive stories with the Punch News App. Download now and never miss a beat.