Oyo south senatorial candidate of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) and member representing Ibadan North-west/Ibadan South-west federal constituency of Oyo state in the House of Representatives, Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Olajide Odidiomo, has called on the church in Nigeria to remain steadfast in its prophetic responsibility of speaking truth to power, describing religious institutions as the conscience of the nation and indispensable partners in national development.
Olajide made the call during a dinner hosted by the Methodist Bishop of Ogbomoso Diocese, Rt. Rev. David Ademola Moradeyo, in honour of the Prelate of the Methodist church Nigeria, His Eminence, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba and his wife, in Ibadan on monday.
In his remarks, the federal lawmaker paid glowing tribute to the Methodist church for its contributions to education, moral development and nation building, urging christian leaders not to relent in holding leaders accountable through constructive engagement and principled advocacy.
“Continue to speak truth to power. The church remains the conscience of the nation. At a time when our country is confronted with enormous social and economic challenges, Nigerians still look up to the church for moral direction, courage and hope,” Olajide said.
The lawmaker disclosed that he remains a proud beneficiary of the Methodist educational tradition, recalling that although he is a muslim, he received his secondary education at Methodist High School, Toll Gate, Ibadan, an experience he said instilled in him the values of discipline, integrity and service.
Drawing from his personal experience, Olajide stressed that the impact of faith based education demonstrates why religious institutions must continue to complement government’s efforts in the education sector.
“I am a beneficiary of the Methodist church. Despite being a muslim, I attended Methodist High School for my secondary education. Returning to this gathering is, therefore, a homecoming for me because this institution contributed immensely to my personal development and the values that have guided my public and private life.
“We should not leave education to the government alone. Religious institutions have always played a significant role in raising responsible leaders and building strong societies. Those of us in the political class see you as partners in progress and we must continue to work together for the advancement of our people and our nation.”
Earlier, the Prelate of the Methodist church Nigeria, His Eminence, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, appreciated the warm reception organized in his honour and urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in faith and continue to pray for leaders at all levels.
The host, Rt. Rev. David Ademola Moradeyo, commended guests for identifying with the Methodist family and reaffirmed the church’s commitment to evangelism, education, humanitarian service and national development.
@all
