CHURCH MUST NOT IGNORE POLITICS IF LEADERSHIP MATTERS – GOV. OTTI

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has urged Christians and faith-based organisations across Nigeria to take an active interest in politics, stressing that meaningful leadership cannot be achieved if politics is neglected.

Speaking on Saturday, April 11, at the Transforming Church International in Abuja during its ADVANCE Conference for workers, pastors, and leaders, Governor Otti delivered a keynote address titled “The Role of the Church in Societal Transformation.” He emphasized that the reluctance of many morally upright individuals to participate in politics has contributed to the nation’s leadership challenges.

According to him, the Church has historically played a vital role in shaping societies and remains a powerful force for transformation. He noted that politics, despite being widely perceived as “dirty,” is a key tool for determining leadership and influencing policies that shape the direction and progress of society.

Governor Otti defined societal transformation as a deep and lasting change in a society’s values, institutions, and systems, leading to improved welfare, justice, and sustainable development. He explained that true transformation goes beyond surface-level reforms and involves a shift in values, quality leadership, and strong institutions.

He urged churches to move beyond charity and handouts by creating empowerment initiatives such as cooperative societies and interest-free loan schemes to support members’ economic growth. He cited the Alex Otti Foundation as an example of impactful intervention.

The governor also called on religious institutions to encourage their members to actively participate in politics, register for voter cards, and engage in the electoral process. He stressed that people of integrity must step into politics to replace those who bring negative practices into governance.

“Politics is not dirty; it is people with wrong values that make it so,” he said, adding that individuals with proven character and a sense of service should not shy away from leadership roles.

Governor Otti further noted that prayers alone are not enough to fix societal problems, urging believers to complement faith with action by engaging in governance processes. He highlighted ongoing collaborations between his administration and religious bodies, including support in healthcare and education, noting a recent medical equipment donation by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In his remarks, the host, Rev. Dr. Sam Oye, commended Governor Otti for the transformation taking place in Abia State, describing him as a humble and committed leader. He also recalled a prophecy about Aba rising as a major economic hub, expressing confidence in the state’s progress under Otti’s leadership.

The event drew clergy and church leaders from various denominations.