There have been mixed feelings by the public on the setting up of a structure for politics and governance by the Redeemed Christian Church of God(RCCG).
Reacting to the development, Dr. Sunny Mbazie, a political communicator and a don in the faculty of Communication and Media studies, University of Port Harcourt, said there was nothing wrong for Christians to participate in politics.
He said the only exception is that politics from a Christian should be seen from the moral point of view against the concept that there is no morality in politics.
He pointed out that in the holy book, it is said that power belongs to God and in so many contents of the scriptures, it was about politics in Israel.
He further said the scripture has a provision when the righteous rule, the people rejoice.
He, therefore, commended RCCG for recognizing that Christians have a role to play in changing the politics of the country from deceit, lying,corruption and many more.
In her own view, Grace Bolaji, said it was wrong for Christians particularly RCCG to engage in politics as it is capable of smearing their image and break the neutrality expected of the house of God,which should be capable of accommodating all political interest.
She queried what political party will RCCG support when there is a conflict in two or more church members in various party contesting elections.
She advised that they remain neutral and not get enmeshed in Nigerian politics so that people can listen to the gospel.
Recall that in a memo from the Assistant General Overseer, Admin and Personnel, Pastor J.F. Odesola to all pastors-in-charge of regions and provinces, dated 28th of February,2022, the church said it has created the office of directorate of politics and governance and appointed Pastor Timothy Olaniyan,PICP of Lagos province(2) to lead the office.
It requested the provinces to appoint with immediate effect, a provincial officer for their province and also ensure that the same is done at all levels of the church, zones, area and parish.
According to it, the essence of this directorate is to help coordinate the engagement of people who are willing to be involved in politics as well as mobilised support for them when required.
