By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko
Oyo State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, has charged Nigerians to be informed, not inflamed as the general elections approach, saying democracy thrives on responsibility, not violence.
Ogundiya stated this in his Democracy Day message to Nigerians made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Ibadan.
He said democracy is “government of the people, by the people, for the people” and worked only when citizens take responsibility daily in their actions and choices.
The cleric urged Nigerians to vote wisely, participate daily and teach children honesty and hard work.
Quoting Proverbs 14:34 “Righteousness exalts a nation…, Ogundiya emphasised that ‘our unity should be our strength.’
He however, noted the nation’s joy was mixed with grief due to insecurity threatening lives and schools, especially in Oyo State in recent weeks.
Ogundiya cited the May 15 abduction of over 40 pupils and teachers from Baptist Nursery/Primary Yawota and Community Grammar School Esiele in Oriire LGA, with one teacher killed.
He added that on June 3, Mrs Busayo John-Paul and her twin sons were also kidnapped in Ibadan while dropping children at school, increasing fear among parents.
The Oyo CAN Chairman therefore urged vigilance and community action.
He enjoined citizens to share movement plans, avoid predictable routines, guard schools with Parents Teachers Associations (PTAs), report suspicious activity to police and Amotekun early.
To government, Ogundiya said leaders must “lead with justice and the fear of God and deliver hospitals, schools, roads and security for all citizens.
He urged governments to intensify rescue efforts for abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire, citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution on protecting lives and property.
“The government should protect our institutions and invest in preventive security around schools, forests and border areas.
“Listen to the people and partner with groups offering help to secure communities,” the cleric advised.
Ogundiya also listed urgent steps: electoral reforms, stopping vote-buying, granting local government autonomy, include youth and women, and fund Amotekun to secure schools and dismantle criminal hideouts.
“”We should always include our youth and women at the decision table, 60 per cent of Nigerians are under 30; we cannot ignore them.
“We need to urgently fund Amotekun, equip police, secure schools and dismantle criminal hideouts so no child fears going to class,” he said.
He concluded with prayers for Nigeria, asking God to “heal our land” give leaders wisdom, comfort victims’ families and bring every captive safely home. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)