THE GOSPEL OF POLITICS

It is no longer news that Pastor Tunde Bakare of the Latter Rain Assembly has alleged that he and other members of the Save Nigeria Group (SNG) were offered a $50,000 bribe by President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (GEJ).

There have been many counter-allegations, people have asked for the evidence of the initial allegation, others have asked how he came to know the exact figure being handed over. I am still wondering why the others did not blow the whistle and why the clarification that the money was not offered directly by the President came days after.

The more I think about this story, the more I am confused about the actual roles of the men involved and the ones they have decided to play.

1. Pastor Bakare

As a man of God, his primary role is to shephard his flocks to eternal rest in heaven. The calling of a true Pastor as I have come to understand it, is to teach, nurture and chastise his members based on biblical precepts until they are rapturable.

In this Sahara Reporters/ Aso Villa visit drama, he decided to become the voice of the voiceless, an activitst of some sort, fighting to ensure the unborn generation has a safe landing in Nigeria when they finally arrive. I honestly do not see anything wrong in pursuing a good cause, however, I think a man of his calibre MUST be discreet and apply a lot more wisdom where politics is concerned.

IMHO, men of God should stick to their core competence; a foray into politics would only soil their name and put a question mark on their reputation. Pastor Bakare should take a cue from his spiritual mentor/father - Pastor W. F. Kumuyi as well as  Pastor E. A. Adeboye. Your role in politics should be enlightening your congregation about their rights and duties as citizen while earnestly praying for the well being of the nation.

2. President GEJ

Since the June 12, 1993 elections and all associated matters especially as regards  Late Chief M. K. O. Abiola's denied mandate, the upcoming 2011 elections seems to be the first in which Nigerian's are being unanimous about the choice of a candidate. GEJ seems to be the only one we see (I don't know other parties talk less of their candidates) and would be willing to give a chance. Now to hear allegations of corruption is simply disappointing otherwise known as falling our hand.

To avoid a future occurence, I strongly advice that this particular incidence is investigated and  guilty parties duly purnished (that is if you didnt mastermind it). However, if for any reason you assented to this, then #SlapYourself... actually, that'll be a huge betrayal especially for all those artistees who have put their goodwill to use to support your goodluck. Did I hear you say they were paid? Well what of the Niger-Deltans who are looking up to their 'son' for a brighter future? 

ASIDE

BTW there's an entertainment package set aside to take care of government guests, this 'care' includes souvenirs, breakfast/lunch/dinner and somethings cash gifts. This obtains not just at Aso Villa but all State houses, High Commissions and other parastatals.