Kenneth Okonkwo, a prominent Nigerian lawyer, recently shared his views on remarks made by Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, regarding church night vigils.
Obi’s suggestion, aimed at enhancing productivity, proposed converting church night vigils into night shifts, sparking mixed reactions from the public. Some Nigerians supported his perspective as a pragmatic approach to improving the country’s productivity, while others viewed it as an unwelcome intervention into religious practices.
Okonkwo, known for his vocal opinions on national issues, responded to Obi’s statement with clear disapproval. In a video from 0:01 response, Okonkwo emphasized that Obi had no authority to dictate or alter how religious practices should be conducted. He argued that religious activities, particularly in the church, were personal and sacred and should not be repurposed based on external suggestions, even from prominent political figures.
The lawyer expressed that his commitment to his work was strong, referring to himself as a “workaholic,” but he stressed the importance of prayer in his life. Okonkwo explained that while productivity is crucial, spiritual practices and religious devotion play an equally significant role for many individuals in Nigeria. He highlighted that prayer is a source of strength and empowerment, especially for those who prioritize their faith.
In making his case, Okonkwo underscored the boundary between politics and religion, suggesting that leaders should be cautious when offering recommendations that touch on spiritual matters. He voiced concerns about any attempts to modify or influence religious practices, arguing that these are personal choices that should remain unaltered by political figures.
According to him, “I will never say I will convert a church into anything; it’s not your business. I am a workaholic, but prayer is my power.”