According to a report by Premium Times on Saturday, July 11, 2026, days after the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Enoch Adeboye, stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was “doing his best” to address Nigeria’s security challenges, the founder of the Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention and Deliverance Ministry, Chukwuemeka “Odumeje” Ohanaemere, presented a contrasting view on the role of religious leaders in matters of governance.
The Onitsha-based cleric argued that pastors have a responsibility to speak truthfully about the performance of governments and should not hesitate to hold public office holders accountable.
According to him, religious leaders should prioritise the interests of the people and uphold biblical principles when addressing national issues.
Odumeje, who is widely known for his outspoken sermons on politics and governance, said pastors have a biblical obligation to rebuke bad governments rather than seek personal benefits from those in power.
He maintained that the responsibility of spiritual leaders extends beyond religious activities and includes speaking against policies or actions they believe are not in the public interest.
According to the Anambra-born cleric, religious leaders should remain independent in their engagements with political office holders and avoid compromising their responsibilities for personal gain.
Speaking during a recent sermon, Odumeje mentioned Pastor Enoch Adeboye by name while urging religious leaders to always speak the truth.
He stated that elected public officials are accountable to the people who elected them and should therefore be subjected to public scrutiny whenever necessary.
The cleric stressed that citizens have the right to question the actions and decisions of those in government, insisting that leadership should be exercised with accountability and transparency.
The cleric also urged Nigerians to stop praising government executives, maintaining that the government belongs to all citizens and exists to serve the public interest.
He said Nigerians should recognise their rights and become more actively involved in demanding accountability from elected officials.
According to him, citizens should not remain passive in the face of national challenges but should continue to engage constructively on issues affecting governance and development.
Odumeje further insisted that Nigerians cannot afford to remain silent on important national matters.
He argued that politicians have failed to demonstrate a proper understanding of national development and expressed concern over the country’s developmental challenges.
According to him, citizens must continue to voice their opinions on governance and public administration, maintaining that greater public awareness and participation are necessary in discussions relating to the country’s progress and the responsibilities of elected leaders.
He said, “I have always said this: let us not forget that there has never been anything the government has done for this country. There is no development. Nothing is happening. I have said it all along, to every Nigerian: we can never keep quiet. These are people who don’t know what the development of a country means. The only thing they know how to do is embezzle and share money. We are no longer boys; we are now fathers….See More