Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto have been billed to dissect the nation’s challenges especially in the tripartite areas of economy, religion and politics.
The duo will be speaking in Lagos at the annual public lecture organised by Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria with the theme: “The trying triangle of economy, faith and politics; looking through the eye of the needle.”
The lecture, billed for Tuesday, October 9, at the church’s Lagos headquarters in Yaba, is expected to be delivered by the erudite clergy, Bishop Kukah, while Chief Obasanjo is the chairman of occasion.
Commenting on the event, the General Overseer of the church, Rev. Felix Meduoye, said the theme of the lecture was informed by the fact that “economy, faith and politics are an interesting mix, especially in Africa where the issue of faith has strong impact in economic and political decisions.
“Political appointments are expected to be made in such a way as to balance the different faith in the country and where there is perceived tilt to one side, there is often serious outcry.”
He added that churches have also become a major point for attention and mobilisation for elections by politicians, saying there is need to consider how the believer can still make the right impact of being ‘the light of the world’ and ‘salt of the earth’ considering the various and mounting challenges facing the country in the economic and political spheres.
“We are of the opinion that at the end of this programme, we would have succeeded in contributing valuable ideas and opinions to the ongoing national discourse as well as encourage and motivate Nigerians to show greater interest in the affairs of the nation,” ahead of 2019 general elections, he said.
Rev. Meduoye said the church will continue to pray for the leadership and people of Nigeria for restoration of years of devastation of its God-given resources, while proffering the required counsel and advice where necessary to those in leadership.
The General Overseer said the two were chosen because Bishop Kukah is a notable priest, social commentator, political activist and a vibrant and respected voice in the nation, noting that Obasanjo also has a strong passion for the growth and development of the country.
The lecture is part of activities preceding the 63rd Annual Convention of the church billed for November 12 – 18 at the Foursquare Camp located at Kilometres 75, along Lagos – Ibadan expressway, Ajebo in Ogun State.
