From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka
The Senior Pastor of the Bible Base Miracle Assembly, Rev. (Dr.) Jerry Nwachukwu, has warned the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, not to expose much of his plans for 2027 presidential election to a majority of his political friends.
The pastor, in an exclusive interview with our reporter at the headquarters of his church located at Nkpor-Agu, Idemili North local government area of Anambra State, warned that if Obi failed to be well guided while forming a merger with his former political allies, his plans for 2027 presidency might be sabotaged.
The cleric told the former Anambra governor that though it is politically wise and proper to form a merger at this time in order to form stronger opposition, yet, he should be aware that the ruling party will infiltrate the union through some strong opposition elements, and sabotage the merger.
He said, “Keep your plans to yourself; don’t expose much of it to anybody or group in the process of the planned merger. You must understand that the government in power will pay some strong political figures in different opposition political parties, especially the LP and PDP, in order to abort and sabotage the plans. Obi must not forget the games, gimmicks and betrayals of 2023, and should not over trust any political friend.
“In 2027, the party in power will not depend wholly on popular votes; but on manipulations. So, if the citizens are ready for a new Nigeria, they should vote, and follow their votes to the last destination.
“While planning the merger, Obi must understand that weak political figures and institutions will be ready to sell out to the government in power. Therefore, his focus, as usual, should be on the Nigerian youths. He should sensitize the youths on things he will bring to the table, if elected president in 2027,” he said.
Speaking on President Bola Tinubu’s performance so far, the charismatic cleric said that since the inception of the present administration, nothing has changed for the better. He said that Tinubu’s best, as expected, are not seen.
On religious leaders and pastors contesting and occupying political positions, the pastor noted that no part of the constitution forbids clergymen from contesting elective positions. He, therefore, encouraged priests, pastors, bishops and others, who have the ability and resources to contest political positions to go ahead and do so.
He said, “As a pastor that has followers, I am encouraging Christians to play active roles in politics; and if they had the opportunity, they should contest elective posts – and when they win, they should represent God by delivering good governance to the people.”
