RCCG cleric calls for overhaul of Nigeria’s democracy, cost-cutting measures

A senior leader of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Johnson Funso Odesola, has publicly called for sweeping changes to Nigeria's democratic framework, warning that the current system is both unsustainable and poorly adapted to the country's unique socio-political landscape. Speaking at the RCCG’s annual 21-day Destiny Encounter held at the RCCG Dominion Cathedral in Ipaja, Lagos, Odesola argued that Nigeria’s governance model, imposed externally, requires urgent reconsideration. His remarks were delivered as part of the event’s theme, “My Appointed Time Has Come,” which includes prayer sessions, teachings, and vigils aimed at spiritual renewal and national transformation. Odesola, who serves as Assistant General Overseer of the RCCG for Continent 3, which encompasses parts of South West Nigeria, the Middle East, and other regions, outlined several key proposals. He highlighted the financial inefficiencies within the Nigerian government, stating that public expenditure on governance exceeds that allocated to infrastructure development. This imbalance, he claimed, undermines long-term national progress. To address these challenges, Odesola suggested adopting hybrid governance models inspired by systems in Arab nations, which integrate traditional leadership with contemporary administrative practices. He pointed to the legacy of former Nigerian leader Chief Obafemi Awolowo, whose regional governance initiatives left behind enduring infrastructure such as roads and educational institutions. In addition to structural reforms, Odesola expressed concern over the disparity in remuneration between politicians and security personnel. He criticized the situation where individuals transitioning from non-political professions into politics receive significantly higher salaries compared to dedicated security officers. “A politician who was a carpenter yesterday earns millions, while the person who has been in the force and entered as a graduate collects peanuts,” he remarked. He called for equitable pay scales and improved treatment across all security agencies. Economically, Odesola urged governments at all levels to reduce the cost of governance and manage resources more prudently. His comments came alongside revelations about the RCCG’s growing involvement in political affairs. In line with directives from the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), the church has established a Directorate of Politics and Governance. This new body aims to educate members on civic duties, encourage voter registration, and promote active participation in upcoming elections. Odesola emphasized that as Christians, members must avoid ignorance in political matters, stressing the importance of voting and defending their choices. Citing biblical principles, Odesola reminded attendees that citizens have a responsibility to engage with governance. “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s,” he quoted, reinforcing the idea that political engagement is a divine mandate. Despite his critical stance toward existing governance structures, Odesola underscored the necessity of prayer as a catalyst for national transformation. “For a nation’s destiny to change, we need prayer,” he said, adding that speaking out must always be done with respect. The 21-day program, which includes intercessory prayers and spiritual teachings, has reportedly witnessed instances of miraculous outcomes, including reports of individuals being revived through faith-based interventions. Odesola described the event as a platform to create an environment conducive to divine action, emphasizing the belief that external forces can disrupt the balance of societal stability. “In life, every object stays in a state of equilibrium unless there is a force that acts on it,” he explained, framing the event as a moment of potential transformation.