The Church Must Vote A Call For Active Christian Participation in The Forth Coming 2023 General Elections in Nigeria

THE CHURCH MUST VOTE: A CALL FOR ACTIVE CHRISTIAN
PARTICIPATION IN THE FORTH COMING 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS IN NIGERIA
BY
NWAOZURU, JOHNMAJOR CHINECHEREM
2023
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Nwaozuru, J.C. (2023). The Church must vote: A call for active Christian participation in the
forth coming 2023 General Elections in Nigeria.
Contact Address
08169870464
09129240346
Email
nwaozuruugo@gmail.com
nwaozuruugo@yahoo.com
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DEDICATION
This book is dedicated to Rev. Fr. Celestine Aniofor (Ochiagha Jesus) Pax Chrixti
Adoration Ministry, Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha and to all the members of The
Church Must Vote campaign Initiative (TCMV) who encourage Christians to vote
during election periods.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Predictably, I want to first of all acknowledge and thank the Almighty God, who gave
me this wisdom and knowledge to write this book. I also appreciate Dr. K.L.
Nwadialor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Chika Gabriel Okpalike, Rev. Fr. Dr. D.C. Obielosi and many
others, who were of immense help to me during my first degree in Nnamdi Azikiwe
University, Awka. Finally, to all those who in one way or other have helped me I
say a big thank you and that may God bless you all. Amen
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title Page i
Contact Address ii
Dedication iii
Acknowledgements iv
Table of Contents v
Preface vii
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION 1
CHAPTER TWO: HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF POLITICS 4
Concept of Politics 4
Origin and Development of Politics in Nigeria 6
Global Level 6
Nigerian Level 7
Democracy in Nigerian Political System 8
Democracy and Election 10
Political Participation in Election 12
CHAPTER THREE: THE INTER-PLAY BETWEEN RELIGION

AND POLITICS IN NIGERIA 14
Christian Missionary and Development of National Politics in Nigeria 16

Loss of Interest in Political Activities Among Christians in Nigeria 16
Need for Christians to Participate in Politics in Nigeria 18
Obedience to Government as Advocated by the Scripture
(Romans 13:1-2, Hebrews 13:17) 18
To Right the Wrongs in the Society 19
CHAPTER FOUR: A CLARION CALL FOR

NIGERIAN CHRISTIANS TO FULLY PARTICIPATE
IN 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS AND POSSIBLE
FUTURE ELECTIONS 20
Active Participation in Voters Registration 22

Prompt Collection of Permanent Voters Card ( PVC) 23
Becoming a Member of Registered Political Parties 23
Public Sensitization 23
Massive Voting During Elections 24
Conclusion 25
References 26
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About the Author 29
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Preface
Democracy calls for periodic elections, which enables qualified adult citizens
to either vote or be voted for. In a democratic state like Nigeria, there is periodic
election usually carried out once in four years. Election period is a time when
qualified adult citizens vote for various political candidates in various political parties
of their choice; or be voted for under the umbrella of one political party or the other.
This is a sure way of exercising their civic responsibility as responsible citizens. The
Church is established in a society not only to affect the lives of members of the
society positively but to transform the society to greater heights. This could be done
through her members voting into power credible political candidates into the various
vacant political posts or when her members vie for vacant political posts during
election periods. In recent times, it has been observed that many qualified adult
Nigerian Christians fail to vote or be voted for during election periods. Thus, show
less interest in political affairs of the nation. This could be attributed to the political
acrimony, pre and post-election violence, rigging and corruption exhibited by
political leaders in Nigeria. For example, apart from the June 12 election of 1993
annulled by Ibrahim Babaginda, although it was claimed to be the most free and fair
poll, other elections have been reported by international observers as not free and
fair, full of election irregularities, malpractices, falsification of results among others.
Moreover, pre and post election periods have witnessed political violence, killing and
kidnapping of political candidates, electorates and election officials. A good example
could be drawn from the 2019 general election especially in Rivers State where thugs
in military camouflage distorted election process destroying election materials.
Currently in Nigeria, burning of Independent National Election Commission (INEC)
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offices is now a trending issue. These are indications that Nigeria political system is
not transparent. These have made many Christians to shy away from Nigerian politics
which ought not be so. There are many reasons Nigerian Christians should fully
participate and be active in the political process of the country among them include;
to right the wrongs in the nation, to ensure that justice and equity is served among the
people since there is constant complain of marginalization, to showcase the light of
true democracy in the political system of governance in Nigeria et cetera. Nigerian
Christians need to trace back to history in order to discover that the Christian
missionaries played vital role in the development of national politics of Nigeria.
They did so by grooming and educating many Nigerians such as Nnamdi Azikiwe,
Obafemi Awolowo among others with Christian values embedded into Western
education. Through studying history and government, these Christian personalities
discovered that there were French Revolution, Cuban Revolution, American fight for
freedom and so on. Thus, they developed the political consciousness of gaining their
own independence from the British colonial government. This they fought and gained
independence on 1st October 1960.
Furthermore, the 2020 Seychelles presidential election won by Anglican priest
Wavel Ramkalawan to defeat President Danny Faure through active political
participation of the people is a big lesson for adult qualified Nigerian Christians to
wake up from their slumber. Therefore, this book is written as a clarion call to awaken
the political consciousness of Christians in Nigeria to fully participate in the forth
coming general elections in 2023. This is to bring the positive change many Nigerians
have yearned for.
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The book is of a small volume but very concise and meaningful contributing
to already existing body of knowledge. It is composed of four chapters. Chapter is the
introduction of the book, chapter two discussed on the historical development of
politics, starting from concept of politics, origin and development of politics in
Nigeria, democracy in Nigerian political system, democracy and election, political
participation in election. Chapter three dwelt on the inter-play between religion and
politics in Nigeria loss of interest in political activities among Christians in Nigeria
need for Christians to participate in politics in Nigeria, obedience to
government as advocated by the scripture (Romans 13:1-2, Hebrews 13:17) and to
right the wrongs in the society chapter
four is on a clarion call for Nigerian Christians to fully participate in 2023 general
elections and possible future elections, active participation in voters registration
prompt collection of permanent voters card ( PVC), becoming a member of registered
political parties and public sensitization
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
In a democratic state like Nigeria, there is periodic election usually once
carried out in four years. Election period is a time when qualified adult citizens vote
for various political candidates in various political parties of their choice or be voted
for as they join one political party or the other. This is a sure way of exercising their
civic responsibility as responsible citizens. The Church is established in a society not
only to affect the lives of members of the society positively but to transform the
society to greater heights. This could be done through her members voting into power
credible political candidates into the various vacant political posts or when her
members vie for vacant political posts during election periods. Contemporarily, it is
appalling that many qualified Nigerian Christians fail to vote during election periods
thus, show less interest in political affairs of the nation. The reason for less interest
in politics is not farfetched.
Nwaozuru (2020) vividly described the political scenario of Nigerian politics
as thus; the political culture of Nigerian politics is associated with corruption,
election violence, thuggery, election malpractices, kidnapping and assassination of
political opponents, political instability and many more. This has made many Nigerian
Christians to conceive politics as a dirty game, evil and something not worth
venturing in. This sometimes has led to candidates who are not credible enough to be
elected into various political offices in the nation thereby causing the masses to suffer.
This is Biblically (Proverbs 29:2) affirmed when the righteous is on the throne the
people rejoice but when the evil man is in the helm of affairs the people suffer. For
such to stop, the Church must vote. Nmah (2012) clarifies that Christian
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responsibility extends from personal to the realm of politics. Hence, Nwaozuru (2020)
supports that Christian participation in politics is a moral obligation that every adult
Christian is obliged to do. He further points to Apostle Paul's teaching which
encouraged Christians to be submissive to the government Romans 13:1 Let every
person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from
God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. In Nigeria, the right to vote
and to be voted for is not only a right but a civic responsibility. Christians should be
actively involved in political activities and contribute to democratic politics without
losing sight of its mission and vision (Nwaozuru, 2020). Thus, Christians in Nigeria
in obedience and compliance to this biblical injunction in Romans 13:1 should
actively participate in the forth coming general election in 2023, to ensure that
credible and reputable candidates are voted in.
In this book terms worthy of definition are church, Christian, election, general
elections, political party, political participation and vote.
Church
Church is from the Greek word Ecclesia which means people who are called
out. Therefore, Church in this context means people who are called out to serve
humanity through Christ who is the head of the church.
Christian
A Christian is a person who behaves like Christ.
Election
Election is a period when qualified adult citizens vote in political candidates
into various vacant political positions in the country.
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General Elections
In this context, general election is a time when all the political positions that
exist in a country are vacant meaning that the tenure of the existing government has
expired hence, fresh elections are carried out to fill in the vacant posts.
Political Party
A political party is an organization duly registered according to the rules of
the electoral umpire in the state, where qualified adult citizens could join and be
able to contest during election. A political party has manifestoes, vision and mission
that is politically oriented.
Political Participation
Political participation means when qualified adult citizens are fully active in
the political activities of their country.
Vote
To vote means a process which allows qualified adult citizens to choose those
who will represent them in the governance of their nation or be allowed to contest for
any vacant political position.
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CHAPTER TWO
HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF POLITICS
Before exploring the history of politics, it is paramount to examine what politics
is all about.
Concept of Politics
There is no common definition for politics due to its multifaceted nature. What
politics means to an African may be different from what it means to a Westerner.
According to Nwaozuru (2020), the term politics originated from two Greek words
polis meaning city and techne meaning art, skill or governing a city. However
Afolabi (2015) conceives politics as the activity through which people make,
preserve and amend the general rules under which they live. As such, it is an
essentially social activity, inextricably linked on the one hand to the existence of
diversity and conflict, and on the other, to a willingness to co-operate and act
collectively. Of truth, politics is a social activity that involves members of the society
especially qualified adult citizens. Hornby (2015) views politics as matters concerned
with acquiring or exercising power, within a group or an organization. From
Hornby’s viewpoint political power is not by hereditary but acquired which could be
by various means such as through election, coercion especially by military rule.
Military rule described as power obtained through gun powder, dominated Nigeria
political arena for over 30 years beginning from 1966 to 1999 before return to civilian
rule. Political power as hereditary was mostly practised in many traditional African
societies where once a king is dead or is incapacitated probably due to old age or
sickness, his eldest son inherits the throne. Politics as a means of acquiring power is
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the current trend in Nigeria's political sector through election. It was believed that
political life as an organized mode of living started in the city and spread to the
neighbourhood. In this classical sense, politics is held to be the art of organizing men
in a society to live and interact with one another for the art of organizing of social
structures such as the establishment of legal and governmental systems to facilitate
this interaction.
In its wider extension, Ushe (2014) opines that the term politics applies to
different forms of organization and direction of human interest at various levels of the
society, including the family, village, Church and university with some purpose in
view. Ushe's viewpoint agrees to the ideology that man is a political animal and man
displays his political nature in any environment he finds himself (Nwaozuru, 2020).
Sigo cited by Ushe (2014) enunciates that the term politics simply refers to the
science or art of influencing or guiding government policy, including areas of
religion, economy and socio-political responsibility of the state or nation to adjust or
order relationship between individuals and groups in a political community. The
above conception of politics indicates that politics controls various other activities in
human society through an established government vested with power and authority to
regulate the affairs of people living in the society. Onyekpe (1998) states that politics
is the struggle for power which itself is the authority to determine or formulate,
execute decisions and policies, which must be accepted by the society. It is the
struggle for power of governance, especially executive authority. Onyekpe’s idea is
correct as politics usually involves struggle for power between various registered
political parties and their candidates for different political offices that are vacant in
the society regulated by an authorized election body. Nwaozuru (2020) affirms that
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struggle for political power is very visible in a society operating a multi-party system
like Nigeria where the immediate past 2019 General Elections especially the
Presidential election had over 70 political parties which contested for it.
Origin and Development of Politics
Global Level
Politics is as old as mankind, Nwaozuru (2020) traces that politics started
from Ancient Near East where political power was held by powerful Kings through
conquest especially from Mesopotamia the cradle of civilisation. Adamo and Al-
Ansari (2020) report the following power tussel in the early era of Mesopotamia
detailed in the Sumerian cuneiform script; there was power tussel between some city
states in Mesopotamia over land (agriculture) and water rights with their results in
excavation of new canals; the long feud between the city state (Lagash) and the day
town called (All other Sumerian city state (Umma).
Mesopotamia were the first people in history to invent the cuneiform script
which made the reporting of their achievements possible. Therefore, this had marked
the beginning of written history. Cuneiform writings pointed to the defeat of the
Sumerians by the Akkadians as the era ended by the accession of King Sargon I to
the throne of Sumer and Akkad and the unification of the Sumerian city-states into the
Akkadian Empire and the inauguration of the Akkadians period (2350-2150BC).
Sargon I of Akkad, was a powerful man, a military genius and administrator whose
rulership lasted almost 200 years. Adamo and Al- Ansari (2020) further report
that there was a short period of power struggle between the most powerful city-states
after which the city of Ur rose to prominence during the period (2150-2003BC), and
so Ur III controlled the cities of Isin, Larsa and Eshnunna and extended as far north
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as Jazira. This glory ended at last at the hands of the Gutian invaders from the Zagros
Mountains, whose kings ruled in Mesopotamia for an indeterminate period until the
rise of Babylonia. The decline of the Akkadians' power and the taking over by new
rising city of Babylon was all achieved through power tussle. Politics was also
visible in Ancient Israel. Although it was theocracy yet, Yahweh through the prophets
and the judges ruled Israel (Nwaozuru, 2020). But with the failure of Joel and Abijah
Samuel's sons to uphold Justice as Okoli (2015) observes that they perverted Justice
and took bribe thus, the people demanded for king hence, the rise of monarchy in
Israel.
It was during the Greceo-Roman period that politics and political
administration was harnessed to a better and more structured system of government.
As Alexander conquered the Persians, he allowed Greek thought and philosophy to
influence politics hence, the development of democracy which many scholars are of
the opinion that it is the best form of government of which is practised in Nigeria.
Nigerian Level
Coming to politics in pre-colonial Nigeria, each ethnic nationality had a
formidable governing body that directed the helm of affairs of the indigenous
people. In Northern Nigeria it was the Emirate system of government, in Yoruba, it
was in form of Oba monarchical system of government while the Igbo had an
egalitarian system of government without no sole person as king except few places
like Onitsha, Aboh under obi leadership yet it was democratic in nature.
It was the British that brought modern politics with parliamentary system of
government during their colonial leadership. Adamo (2018) elucidates that the
Macpherson Constitution of 1922 introduced elective principle which helped in the
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formation of political parties in Nigeria. Herbert Macaulay formed the first political
party called Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923 other Nigerians
formed different political parties and an election was held for the indigenous people.
Winners were elected into various vacant political offices created by British colonial
government. Nigeria achieving independence in 1960 and subsequent republican in
1963, politics became a home game of all qualified adult citizens.
Democracy in Nigerian Political System
Nigeria is a democratic state, therefore, this section will examine democracy in
Nigerian political system. The term democracy, is derived from two Greek words;
demos which means people and kratos which means rule; literarily, democracy means
rule by the people. Abraham Lincoln defined democracy as government of the
people by the people and for the people. Appadorai (2004) described democracy as a
system of government under which the people exercise the governing power either
directly or through representatives periodically elected by them. In the ancient Greek
state, direct democracy was possible because all adult members of the community
could easily take part in decision making. According to Falade (2014), population
growth and expansion in political boundaries have made direct democracy
impracticable in the modern political system; this is the reason why representative
democracy has replaced direct democracy in different parts of the world including
Nigeria. Representative democracy is an indirect democracy where sovereignty is held
by the peoples representatives. Idowu (1998) points out that although the conditions
of modern state make direct participation of all the people in government of the state
impossible, the concept of democracy still emphasizes the rule of the people. That is,
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the sovereign power is indirectly exercised by the people through a system of
representation.
A look at democracy in Nigerian political scenario, Nwaozuru (2020) is of
the opinion that true democracy is absent in Nigeria as the political system is
characterized by intolerance, intimidation, thuggery, assassination, bitterness, apathy,
indolence and other election malpractices. As a result of this, the ingredients of
democracy have not been able to thrive after many years of political independence in
Nigeria. Even in various political parties, there is no free and fair primary election as
the process is hijacked by top political leaders such the president, governors and the
senators who make sure that their preferred candidates emerge as the winner of the
primaries. Sometimes, after selling nomination forms at exorbitant rates, there will be
no primary election that would be conducted. The party leaders would just come out
and proclaim a particular candidate whom they have chosen as the winner. This was
the case in 2022 Anambra Gubernatorial election, where All Progressive Congress
declared Ifeanyi Uba as the winner while actually, there was no proper primary
election done. This shows that true democracy has not permeated the Nigerian
political process.
It is paramount that true democracy should be allowed to dominate the politics
of Nigeria in order for the people to enjoy the benefits of democracy. On the benefits
of democracy, Nwaigbo (2003) further states that democracy is an important
opportunity to awaken people to play their civic roles and to become the social
instrument of justice, peace and truth in human society. Justice, truth and peace are
ethical values without which Democracy cannot function well and therefore,
democracy is incomplete without this ethical norms. Ethical norms could be drawn
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from religious values and teachings which help to transform citizens to be law
abiding. A good instance is Hebrews 13:17.
Democracy and Election
Democracy calls for free and fair election where representatives are chosen
according to the peoples’ choice. Therefore, in a democratic setting like Nigeria,
election is a very important means of acquiring political power. It could be said that
many people have misunderstood the scope of the meaning of election to mean only
the totality of what happens during election day. However, according to Aniekwe
and Kushie (2011), elections are a complex set of activities with different variables
that feed on one another. The word elections encompasses all the events that
happened during the days, weeks, months and even years before election day
including the campaign period. It includes not only the totality of what took place
during the election period, but also all the post-election events. It could be said that
an election includes the entire legal and constitutional framework of elections; the
actual registration of political parties, party campaigns, financing, the activities of a
security agent and the government in power. It includes the authentication and the
genuineness of the voters register, the independence or lack of it. It also has to do
with the liberalism or non- liberalism of the political process in a particular country
and the independence of adjudicating electoral bodies. An election is one of the
cardinal features of democracy. It is the process through which individuals are openly
and methodically chosen to represent a body or community in a larger entity or
government. This is why in Nigeria, each state has three constituencies that represent
the state at federal level.
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According to Iyayi (2004), an election is defined as a formal act of collective
decision that occurs in a stream of connected antecedent and subsequent behaviour. It
means that without elections one cannot really talk of representative democracy in
any modern country. To a certain extent, elections and electoral practices shape the
fate of any modern nation-state. They are the medium by which different interest
groups can resolve their claims to power through peaceful means. Elections, therefore,
determine how changes in the social order may be brought about. It is actually the
participation of people in electing their leaders and their own participation in
governance. Normally, an examination of Nigerian elections should include all the
above dimensions of elections if such an examination is to be credible. In a
democratic state, election serves several purposes. Aniekwe and Kushie (2011) list at
least six important purposes of elections.
i. It serves as a means of transition from bitter experience of war to civility in
a war-torn state.
ii. It provides ample opportunity for freedom from oppression in a previously
authoritarian regime.
iii. It gives a government an opportunity for legitimacy and validates
negotiated political pacts.
iv. It also serves as a transitory process not only in an authoritarian regime but
even in a stable government.
v. It provides a platform for debate, persuasion and common rules for
choosing representatives of the people who can serve in executive, legislative and
other institutions of government.
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vi. Election in this sense can serve as a critical means of social conflict
management through peaceful means.
Thus, for these purposes to be achieved in any democratic society like
Nigeria, there is need for transparency in the election process. Politics requires a
constitution and political parties. It involves ideology. It includes constructive
criticism (opinion); it requires the public and the state which is made up of individuals
that will participate in the politics played in the society. In Nigeria, the body in charge
of election is Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and election into
the various political positions in Nigeria is done once in four years as it will be carried
out in 2023.
Political Participation in Election
Political participation, particularly in the electoral process, is a fundamental
requirement of representative democracy. Political participation is the involvement of
the citizens in the political activities in their state. Adelekan (2010) states that
political participation is the process through which the individual plays a role in the
political life of his society and has the opportunity to take part in deciding what
common goals of the society are and the best way of achieving these goals. Political
participation could be seen as an aspect of political behaviour and it focuses on the
way in which individuals take part in politics. It is a voluntary activity and one may
participate directly or indirectly. The various ways by which the people can be
involved in the political system include selection or election of political leaders,
formulation of policies, community activities and other civic engagements. Afolabi
(2015) asserts that the essence of political participation in any society, either civilized
or primitive, is to seek control of power, acquisition of power and to influence
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decision making. Political participation is a means of contributing ones quota to the
political system and overall development of the nation. Political participation is one of
the fundamental requirements of democratic governance. This is the reason why
Adelekan (2010) emphasizes that ideally, democracy means individual participation
in the decisions that involves one’s life. In a democratic system, there is the necessity
for the citizenry to be fully involved in the democratic procedures of the choice of
rulers and effective communication of the public policies and attitudes. Any claim to
democratic regime or state must essentially embrace a high degree of competitive
choice, openness, and enjoyment of civic and political liberties of her citizens.
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CHAPTER THREE
THE INTER-PLAY BETWEEN RELIGION AND POLITICS IN NIGERIA
It is worthy of note that religion plays significant role in Nigerian politics.
Nigeria is a multi-faith nation, it has three dominant religions namely: African
traditional religion, Islam and Christianity. All these religions with their ideologies
allow for interaction between religion and politics. Afolabi (2015) observes that the
traditional religion of a society is a systematic reflection of their socio-cultural
orientation, history and legacies on elemental forces, which in turn produces a belief
in a supreme cosmic power that created heaven and earth. To this power belong all
things in their social psych. Thus, traditional politics of the people has a strong
linkage to belief in theocracy. Nwaozuru (2020) has it that:
The Yoruba, Oba (king), is the political leader of the people and is only
holding his office in trust for Olodumare (the Supreme Being). More so, before an
Oba is selected or appointed, as the case may be, the Ifa oracle must be adequately
consulted for spiritual approval. In traditional Igbo society, it is believed that men do
not contest for kingship but the supreme being chooses who becomes the king. This is
shown in the name the Igbo bear such as Ezechimere (king made by God) and
Chinemeze (God makes one king). Therefore, politics and religion in traditional
society are intertwined and have direct influence on each other (pp. 17-18).
Islam as a way of life dictates and governs the totality of life of Muslims from
cradle to grave. Consequently, political interest, economic considerations, social
values and interaction are often given Islamic interpretations based on the Holy
Quran, prophetic practices and other sources of law recognized in Islam. These virtues
are expected to permeate the socio-political structure of any Islamic state. In fact,
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Akintola (1997) elucidates that Prophet Mohammed was the spiritual as well as the
political leader of his people during his lifetime; after his death, the Caliphs emerged
and still held on to the same principles. Regardless of the nature of the society, Islam
encourages Muslims to hold on to its principles by allowing the Holy Quran and the
Sunnah to be their guide. One can conclude here that Islam allows for a spiritual
relationship between religion and politics. To this end, in northern Nigeria and some
parts of Western Nigeria, where Islam dominates, the Emir is the religious and
political leader of the people under the Emirate system of government.
In Christianity, The Scripture pointed out many Israelites who were involved
in the government of God's chosen people; starting with King Saul, David, Solomon
and so on. The Scripture even recorded Hebrews or Jews who held one political office
or the other in foreign nations examples include: Joseph a prime minister in Egypt
(Genesis 41), Esther was queen of Ahasu-e′rus, who reigned from India to Ethiopia
and in Persia and Media ( Esther 1), Daniel among others.
Afolabi (2015) opines that Jesus Christ did not discourage political
participation for the faithful. Nwaozuru (2020) opines that When Christianity became
a legal religion in Roman Empire by Edict of Milan as decreed by Emperor
Constantine from henceforth, Christianity began to associate with politics. During the
medieval period, the Church led by Pope was powerful in the political affairs of the
then world. Presently, many Christians including religious leaders are much active in
politics of their various nations. A good example is Raphael Warnock, a pastor at the
Black Ebenezer Baptist Church in United States of America among others.
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Christian Missionary and Development of National Politics in Nigeria
It is worthy of note that the European Christian missionaries contributed to the
development of national politics in Nigeria. Onyebuagu (2002) is of the opinion that
the missionaries worked hand-in-glove with the British colonial administrators in
Nigeria as many of the British officials were Christians. Diara and Nche (2013)
observe that Church Missionary Society pressurized British government to establish
an administrative frame work that would ensure a fruitful germination of Christian
ideals which were development oriented. Many Nigerians who accessed Western
education brought by the Christian missionaries studied history and government. They
were able to read various revolutions like French Revolution, Cuban Revolution,
American fight for independence among others. Thus, these historical facts motivated
them and the consciousness of gaining their own freedom from colonial rule arose
among these educated Nigerians. According to Diara and Nche (2013), most of the
leading Nigerian nationals were educational products of the Christian missions like
Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Herbert Marcauley, Anthony Enahoro and a
host of others. These Christian personalities contributed to the actualization of
independence of Nigeria as a sovereign nation. Even after the colonial government
had left, many educated Nigerians whom have been groomed with Christian values
obtained under Western education continued to pilot the political affairs of Nigeria.
Loss of Interest in Political Activities Among Christians in Nigeria
There are reasons many Nigerian Christians abstain from politics or show
little or no interest in. It is obvious that in Nigeria, the political terrain is associated
with many ills which make it unhealthy ground for innocent citizens to actively
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participate in politics. Ushe (2014) captures the political scenario of Nigeria in his
statement:
The political history of Nigeria has manifested an unmerited monotony of
rascality, political, unbridled corruption, political blundering, moral
decadence, incessant conflicts, and political motivated assassinations of
political opponents, molestations of innocent citizens, wanton destruction of
properties that worth millions of naira, political sycophancy and lawlessness
due to the introduction of monetization of politics (p. 21).
People opt for political positions not for the sole purpose of rendering services
to the people but for self-aggrandizement. The manner in which election campaign is
being conducted in Nigerian would attest to this point. On that note Ugwu (2011)
stated that politicking in Nigeria is scary; killing, poisoning, character and real
assassination, occultism have become associated with it. Party membership and
opposition are not understood as differences in vision or opinion but rather as enmity.
The Nigerian society seems helplessly submerged in corruption and bad leadership.
Political leaders embezzle, misappropriate and divert public fund to their personal
account.
In Nigeria, corruption could be said to have started from the political field.
For example Robert (1993) affirms that Azikiwe was the first major political figure
investigated for questionable practices as he was seem to be involved in money
laundering due to illegal financial transactions where the paid-up capital of his bank
(African Continental Bank) was from the Eastern Regional Financial Corporation in
1944. Eccker (1981) opines that in 1962 Awolowo was found to have
misappropriated funds from the coffers of the Western Regional Government. Hence,
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from the political arena, corruption spread to other sectors of Nigeria. having seen
that corrupt practices are truly witnessed in our politics hence, Uzoigwe (2011)
observes that Nigerian leaders are found wanting in ideal characters that extol
governance. Their attitude to the leadership requirement is faulty, unimpressive and
substandard. The resultant effect is egocentrism, looting, corruption. On the part of
the society poverty, moral depravity, social vices, unemployment and many more
become the dividend.
Others make references to the Bible such as John 13:36, where Christ said His
Kingdom is not of the world; Luke 12:13, where Christ broadly refused to be made a
judge and a promoter of human justice. Among this category also is the dominical
saying in Matthew 22:21; Mark 12:17; Luke 20:25: Render therefore to Caesar the
things that are Caesars, and to God the things that are Gods. Hence, for them
venturing into politics is being entangled with worldliness. Hence, they abstain from
active political participation
Need for Christians to Participate in Politics in Nigeria.
Obedience to Government as Advocated by the Scripture (Romans 13:1-2,
Hebrews 13:17)
The bible encourages Christians to obey the government Romans 13:1-2 Let
every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except
from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore he who resists
the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur
judgment. The right to vote and to be voted for as enshrined in the Nigerian
constitution is a civic responsibility and an obligation every adult qualified citizen
should carry out during election period. Nwaozuru (2020) states that civic duty is the
18
Christians’ moral responsibility thus, P a u l advocates Christians’ absolute obedience
to the ruling authority thus, Christians in Nigeria should involve in politics as part of
fulfilling their civic responsibility. The Nigerian Christians have a stake in this regard
not only as religious members but fundamentally as citizens of the state.
It has been established above that Christians should obey the government and
fulfilling civic obligation as far as the constituted civic responsibility is not against
Christian faith of which the right to vote and to be voted for is among. Arinze (1990)
opines that Christians should be model citizens and patriots, they should take the lead
by responding to their duties volitionally as against fear of punishment. It therefore
becomes an obligation bound in conscience for Christians to participate in election.
To Right the Wrongs in the Society
It has noted above that some political leaders in Nigeria involve in corruption
which breeds injustice in the society with the masses suffering the most. Christians as
salt and light of the world as stated in Matthew 5:13-16, should rise to the occasion
in order to right the wrongs in the Nigerian society. To correct the social ills brought
by poor leadership, Christians must be active in politics. Furthermore, to ensure that
justice and equity is served among the people since there is constant complain of
marginalization especially among minor ethnic nationalities in Nigeria, to portray the
light of true democracy in the political system of governance in Nigeria.
It could be said that both the government and the Church are institutions
through which God extends His services to humankind hence, this calls for active
Christian participation in politics which is paramount. Nigerian Christians as citizens
are to involve in politics to ensure that social justice, equity and peace prevail in the
society (Nwaozuru, 2020).

19
CHAPTER FOUR
A CLARION CALL FOR NIGERIAN CHRISTIANS TO
FULLY PARTICIPATE IN 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS
AND POSSIBLE FUTURE ELECTIONS
What motivated this book is the 2020 Seychelles Presidential Election. There
are lessons Christians in Nigeria should learn from it. According to Nwaozuru
(2020), the October 2020 Seychelles presidential election marked a historic political
land mark as the citizens of Seychelles opted for a change of government through the
ballot box to get the desired change they wanted. An Anglican priest by name Wavel
Ramkalawan of the Seychelles National Party congested and won the election after
losing six times. This is a crucial event that Nigerian Christians should learn from.
It is not to say that Nigerian Christians show political apathy as Nwaozuru
(2020), points to some notable Nigerian Christians who have congested in politics
such as:
Rev. Chris Okotie presidential candidate of the Fresh Party in the 2007 general
elections, others are Pastor Tunde Bakare (Latter Rain Assembly) former running
mate of President Muhammadu Buhari in 2011 under the umbrella of Congress
for Progressive Change, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu of Redeemed Christian Church
of God (RCCG) under Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate
in 2016 election in Edo state, Bishop Dr. Emeka Nwankpa (Chapel of Faith
Bible Assembly International) contested for governorship in Anambra State in
2011 and also contested for IsialaNgwa North House of Assembly Constituency
under All Progressive Grand Alliance in 2019 General Elections. Both the 2015
and 2019 general elections, Buhari picked a Pentecostal pastor and Professor,
20
Yemi Osinbajo of RCCG as his running mate and they won in the general
elections respectively. Yemi Osinbajo is currently the Vice President of Nigeria
(p.19).
But it could be observed that greater percentage of Christians in Nigeria are not
active but passive during election periods. In agreement to the above statement, The
Church Must Vote (TCMV) (2019) Campaign Initiative decry that despite being the
largest demography in Nigeria with over 85 million people according to National
Bureau of Statistics (NBS) statistics, the church in Nigeria is a minority in the area of
national leadership and decision-making. TCMV (2019) further observed that INEC
records show that the voter turnout in Christian dominated states especially in the
south is very low. This was the reason why a group of concerned Christian citizens
came up with The Church Must Vote (TCMV) initiative. TCMV is an online and
offline campaign movement in Nigeria. According to Uwalaka, Nwala and Amadi
(2020):
TCMV is a civil society group which is a non-partisan movement of committed
Christians aimed at influencing decision making outcomes through participation
in the civic process. TCMV want to enhance the Church's civic vitality and
make Christians the leading voices in nation-building. This objective could be
achieved if Christians were active in the democratic process and ready to uphold
their civil rights obligations (p.2).
TCMV team campaigned in many mega Churches for Christian to come out in
mass and vote during the 2019 general elections. This study adds to the voice of
TCMV, calling all qualified adult Nigerian Christian citizens to collectively vote or be
voted for in the forth coming 2023 general elections.
21
It is obvious that general elections in Nigeria are few years away precisely in
2023. It is a task on the Church to mobilize her members to actively participate in the
forth coming polls to get the needed change every Nigeria yearn for. The following
are ways of mobilizing Christians for active participation in future elections in
Nigeria .
Active Participation in Voters Registration
Before election is conducted, INEC opens various centres in different electoral
wards of all the states of the federation, for qualified adult citizens to register. This is
to enable them to be qualified to vote during election period. It could be observed that
often times, some Christians consider it a waste of time to go and register at
designated INEC voters registration centres. Hence, religious leaders should
encourage and motivate their congregations who have not yet registered to go and do
so as a sign of responsible citizenship and an obedience to the government which is
instituted by God (Romans 13:1).
The online Continuous Voter Registration platform launched by INEC on July
28, 2021, is commendable as it an ample opportunity for Christians who do not have
Permanent Voters' Card (PVC) to cease this opportunity to register. Those registering
should make sure that they provide the right bio-data of themselves and ensure that
the details provided tallies with ones in other valid identity cards they have. This is
to avoid errors such as incorrect name, false date of birth among others. This is one
of the steps to indicate interest of active participation come 2023 general elections.
22
Prompt Collection of Permanent Voters Card ( PVC)
Prompt collection of Permanent Voters Card (PVC) is another strategic move for
active participation during election. Some Christians are reluctant to go and collect
their PVCs after registration. Religious leaders should speak against such
lackadaisical attitude and encourage Christians who registered to make haste to
collect their PVCs on time before 2023 election. At the point of collection of PVC,
one should cross check if his/her details are correct, if there are errors, the person
should launch a complain to the appropriate INEC officials for correction. If there are
no errors, the PVC should be safely kept awaiting 2023.
Becoming a Member of Registered Political Parties
Nigeria operates a multi-party system of government hence, there are many
registered political parties in the country. Religious leaders should mandate
Christians who do not belong to any political party to join any party of their choice
by duly registering with their choice party. This will enable Christians who to contest
for one political post or the other to be in a better position to garner support of their
party members to win their primaries first, then be fully prepared for the main polls in
2023.
Public Sensitization
TCMV team is a good example of the above idea. TCMV campaign team in
2019 went to various Churches to sensitize Christians on the need to vote and be
voted for during election periods. This study encourages churches and various
Christian groups and associations to join in public enlightenment programmes and
activities to educate the people on the importance of active participation during

23
elections. This sensitization should be taken to villages and towns of Christian
dominated areas and beyond. This will help to broadened the minds of Christians who
foresee politics as a dirty game to reconsider and redirect their steps towards active
participation in politics.
Massive Voting During Elections
It is not enough for Christians in Nigeria to register and collect their PVCs nor
by joining political parties of their choice. There is need for them to come out in mass
on the days slated for all qualified adult citizens to cast their votes and vote massively
for their preferred candidates. This could yield positive results. This was done by
Christians in Seychelles and they got the change their desired. There is the
possibility that if Nigerian Christians could massively vote in this coming 2023
general elections, their efforts would not be in vain.
24
Conclusion
Nigeria operates a democratic system of government which allows for periodic
elections of which will take place in 2023 as there is going to be a General Elections
in Nigeria. Election is a period of change and many Nigerians yearn for it. It has been
observed that Many Nigerian Christians fail to fully participate during election
periods. This was the main reason TCMV Campaign Initiative was formed to visit
public places where Christians gather to enlighten them on the need to vote or be
voted for during elections.
This book is in agreement with TCMV Campaign Initiative, calling on qualified
adult Nigerian Christians to take the bull by the horns in this forthcoming general
elections come 2023. For this to happen, the Church by implications qualified
Nigerian Christians should and must vote while those who want to contest must make
necessary preparations so that they can win.
25
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Studia Historiae Ecclesiasticae Journal,44,3, 1-19.
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(Eds.). Religion: Study and practice (pp.23-45). Ijebu-Ode: Alamsek.
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University Press.
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(Ed.). Governance, democracy and civic society, (pp265.-275). Ile-Ife:
Obafemi Awolowo University Press.
Iyayi, F. (2004). Conduct of elections and electoral practices in Nigeria. A paper

delivered at the Nigerian Bar Association Conference in Abuja on 24
August 2004.
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Nwaigbo, F. (2003). Democracy in Church and state: A theological challenge. Port

Harcourt: CIWA.
Nwaozuru, J.C. (2020). A clarion call for proactive participation in politics by

Nigerian Christians. Retrieved on September 26, 2021. From
www.bambooks.io
Nwaozuru, J.C. (2020). Seychelles 2020 presidential election: A lesson for

contemporary Nigerian Christians . Retrieved on September 26, 2021. From
www.owupress.com
Okoli, E. (2015). Essential Christian religious studies for senior secondary schools.
Lagos: Tonad.
Onyebuage, S.O. (2001). Christianity and Onitsha Primal Society: The Anglican
Contribution. Enugu: Magnet .
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independence. In Journal of Modern African Studies, 13.
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in politics and societal transformation in Nigeria. Enugu: Kingsley.
Ushe, M.U. (2014). Christian youths and politics in Nigeria: Implications for
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Church Must Vote campaign in Nigeria. Covenant Journal of
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Uzoigwe, A.M. (2011). The Nigerian Christian attitude to civic duties: An exegetical
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28
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nwaozuru, Johnmajor Chinecherem hails from Umukalu
Ntigha in IsialaNgwa North Local Government Abia State. His
First School Leaving Certificate was obtained at Golf Course
Primary School II while his West African Examination
Certificate was at Adonai College all in Aba. He obtained B.A
in Religion and Human Relations in Nnamdi Azikiwe
University Awka. He carried out his NYSC programme in
Furmi Magu Ward, Sardauna Local Government, Taraba State
2019-2020. He engages in various academic research works.
He is proficient in web programming and development
(frontend and backend), computer networking, CCTV
installation. He authored his first book in 2019 titled Socio-
economic Appraisal of Football Betting Among Nigerian
Youths: Blessing or Burden. He has many other books and
articles to his credit listed below:
(1). Appraisal of Social Media Among Undergraduates in Nigeria: Blessing or

Burden. (2019).
(2) . The Menace of Petroleum Pipeline Vandalism: A Case Study of Osisioma Ngwa
Local Government Area, Abia State Nigeria. (2019).
(3). The Menace of Baby Factory in Nigeria: A call for Prompt Action. (2019).
(4). The Survival of African Traditional Religion Amidst Foreign Religions in

Nigeria. (2019)
(5) Church and the fight against kidnapping in Nigeria. (2020).
29
(6) Students and sports betting in Nigeria. (2020).
(7) A Critical appraisal of Christian healing ministry in Nigeria. (2020).
(8) The menace of cultism among Nigerian youths. (2020).
(9) The predicaments of broken marriage on children. (2020).
(10) Christian appraisal of feminist ideologies among Nigerian women. (2020).
(11) Christian appraisal of feminist ideologies among Nigerian women. (2020).
(12) Church response to domestic violence against Igbo women of SouthEastern

Nigeria.(2020).
(13) A clarion call for proactive participation in politics by Nigerian Christians.

(2020).
(14) The quest to get rich quick by Nigerian youths. (2020).
(15) My NYSC experience (focuse on some cultural practices of Mambilla and

Kaka ethnic groups) (2020).
ARTICLES
(1) Seychelles 2020 presidential election: A lesson for contemporary Nigerian

Christians.
(2) Biblical support to the use of plants for medicinal purposes: In African
perspective.
SOME OF THE BOOKS ARE AVAILABLE AT www.bambooks.io

FOR THE ARTICLES VISIT www.owupress.com and scribd.com
30

The Church Must Vote A Call For Active Christian Participation in The Forth Coming 2023 General Elections in Nigeria

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THE CHURCH MUST VOTE: A CALL FOR ACTIVE CHRISTIAN

PARTICIPATION IN THE FORTH COMING 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS IN NIGERIA

NWAOZURU, JOHNMAJOR CHINECHEREM

during election periods.

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION 1

CHAPTER TWO: HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF POLITICS 4

CHAPTER THREE: THE INTER-PLAY BETWEEN RELIGION

Christian Missionary and Development of National Politics in Nigeria 16

CHAPTER FOUR: A CLARION CALL FOR

Active Participation in Voters Registration 22

acrimony, pre and post-election violence, rigging and corruption exhibited by

fair, full of election irregularities, malpractices, falsification of results among others.

kidnapping of political candidates, electorates and election officials. A good example

in military camouflage distorted election process destroying election materials.

Currently in Nigeria, burning of Independent National Election Commission (INEC)

people since there is constant complain of marginalization, to showcase the light of

true democracy in the political system of governance in Nigeria et cetera. Nigerian

missionaries played vital role in the development of national politics of Nigeria.

education. Through studying history and government, these Christian personalities

independence on 1st October 1960.

Furthermore, the 2020 Seychelles presidential election won by Anglican priest

Wavel Ramkalawan to defeat President Danny Faure through active political

the political consciousness of Christians in Nigeria to fully participate in the forth

have yearned for.

to already existing body of knowledge. It is composed of four chapters. Chapter is the

introduction of the book, chapter two discussed on the historical development of

politics, starting from concept of politics, origin and development of politics in

Nigeria, democracy in Nigerian political system, democracy and election, political

politics in Nigeria loss of interest in political activities among Christians in Nigeria

need for Christians to participate in politics in Nigeria, obedience to

government as advocated by the scripture (Romans 13:1-2, Hebrews 13:17) and to

right the wrongs in the society chapter

elections and possible future elections, active participation in voters registration

prompt collection of permanent voters card ( PVC), becoming a member of registered

political parties and public sensitization

In a democratic state like Nigeria, there is periodic election usually once

civic responsibility as responsible citizens. The Church is established in a society not

in politics is not farfetched.

Nwaozuru (2020) vividly described the political scenario of Nigerian politics

as thus; the political culture of Nigerian politics is associated with corruption,

election violence, thuggery, election malpractices, kidnapping and assassination of

Christian is obliged to do. He further points to Apostle Paul's teaching which

encouraged Christians to be submissive to the government Romans 13:1 Let every

actively involved in political activities and contribute to democratic politics without

in obedience and compliance to this biblical injunction in Romans 13:1 should

credible and reputable candidates are voted in.

elections, political party, political participation and vote.

humanity through Christ who is the head of the church.

A Christian is a person who behaves like Christ.

Election is a period when qualified adult citizens vote in political candidates

into various vacant political positions in the country.

A political party is an organization duly registered according to the rules of

that is politically oriented.

the political activities of their country.

any vacant political position.

HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF POLITICS

Before exploring the history of politics, it is paramount to examine what politics

politics means to an African may be different from what it means to a Westerner.

with acquiring or exercising power, within a group or an organization. From

by various means such as through election, coercion especially by military rule.

structures such as the establishment of legal and governmental systems to facilitate

science or art of influencing or guiding government policy, including areas of

religion, economy and socio-political responsibility of the state or nation to adjust or