Osun 2026: Cleric urges religious leaders to seek divine guidance ahead of poll

By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo

A cleric of the Christ Apostolic Church Solution Land, Ile-Ife, Rev. Bisi Akinyefa, popularly known as Gbanaje, has urged religious leaders to seek divine guidance ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in Osun State.

Akinyefa also called on politicians to demonstrate genuine commitment to the welfare of the masses, stressing that leadership without compassion cannot deliver meaningful results.

He spoke during the ordination service of ministers held at the Worldwide Intercessory Prayer Ministry (Bethel House) campground in Ogbaagba, Ede, Osun State.

Ten ministers were ordained at the event, including Pastor Olabiyi Samuel Damilare; Pastor Claudius Adewumi Oyelami; Pastor (Dr.) Adeolu Ajibade Adeyemo; Pastor (Mrs.) Ogundiran Florence Bolaji; and Pastor (Dr.) (Mrs.) Lydia Funmilola Adeyemo, among others.

Speaking on governance, Akinyefa said politics, though essential, is currently being practised in a manner that falls short of expectations, urging Christians to take responsibility in shaping a system that reflects godly values and benefits society.

“Politics is good, but the way it is being practised is not encouraging. Christians must take responsibility to help shape the system in a way that pleases God and benefits society,” he said.

He further charged the newly ordained ministers to remain steadfast in faith, prayer, and the teachings of the Bible, noting that spiritual discipline is key to overcoming global challenges.

“It is a good thing to be ordained as a pastor. They must continue to pray, live by the word of God, and remain faithful so they can excel despite the challenges in the world,” he added.

Also speaking, the General Overseer of the Worldwide Intercessory Prayer Ministry, Rev. (Mrs.) Funmilayo Olabiyi, urged the ministers to remain committed to their divine calling and responsibilities.

“My admonition to them is to be faithful to the call and the work God has committed into their hands,” she said.

Olabiyi also advised church leaders, particularly General Overseers, to seek God’s direction ahead of the Osun governorship poll, urging them to pray for credible leadership and avoid political manipulation.

“We must seek the face of God concerning the upcoming election so that the right leaders will emerge. We should not allow ourselves to be used or influenced by politicians,” she said.

Meanwhile, Pastor (Dr.) Adeolu Adeyemo, speaking on behalf of the newly ordained ministers, expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity and prayed for the grace and capacity to fulfil their ministerial responsibilities.