The United Church: Our vision is to produce Ogun’s next governor — Apostle Olawoye
Light Up Ogun State Movement
The United Church Hosts a Vibrant Event to Illuminate Ogun State’s Future
An emerging Christian political pressure group in Ogun State has boldly declared its intention to produce the next governor of the state in 2027.
The group, known as The United Church, Ogun State Chapter, comprises Bible-believing churches from various Christian denominations across Ogun State. During their Anniversary Programme held at The Unity Church, Rafco on November 19, 2024, the group unveiled its plans to actively engage in politics and governance, with the goal of shaping the future leadership of the state.
In a landmark move, the group announced the launch of a new political movement, ‘Lightup Ogun State,’ which will officially kick off on January 19, 2025. The movement marks the beginning of their active participation in Ogun’s political landscape, with the goal of ensuring that a Christian leader is elected as the next governor.
Apostle Olawoye B. Kayode, the Convener of Lightup Ogun State and Founder of the United Church, Ogun State, spoke passionately about the initiative during an interview, emphasising the need for unity within the Church and the importance of the Christian community taking a more active role in the political process.
“The weakness of the Church so far has been due to our division, and the Spirit of the Lord is bringing back the unity that has been lost. That’s why we named the organization ‘United Church,’” Apostle Kayode said.
“We blame the government, and the government blames the people, but we’ve discovered that the Church has not been participating. While other faith groups are active, the Church has been largely silent. The silence of the Church is one of the greatest reasons behind the problems in this country.”
Apostle Kayode called on Christians to step out of the shadows and take responsibility for their role in shaping the future of Ogun State.
“If we are the light of the world, why are we hiding under a bushel? Enough of sitting on the fence and blaming those in government. We must get involved and contribute to the betterment of society,” he said.
Pastor Jesuloba Oluwasanmi, another member of the organisation, expressed strong faith in the movement’s ability to produce the next governor of Ogun State.
He said, “Everything is by faith, and we are confident that with God, all things are possible. We don’t have a specific candidate yet, but we are looking for a true child of God to lead. We are not saying those currently in power are bad, but we trust that God will reveal the right person.”
Pastor Oluwasanmi also emphasised the significant political influence of the Christian community in Ogun State. “We are 70% of the state’s population, and with over 300,000 registered voters, we have the power to move mountains. If all Christians in Ogun who are eligible to vote come out and support our candidate, we believe we will win.”
Despite their ambition, the group clarified that they are not seeking to form a political party or oppose the current administration.
“Our aim is not to create a new political party or attack the current governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun. He is our governor, and we voted for him. We are not fighting against him. We are simply standing aloof, observing any candidate who is willing to carry us along in governance,” said the Convener in a press statement.
Pastor Olaleye Olubisi, another leader in the movement, noted the group’s desire for a governor who embodies Christian values, wisdom, and integrity.
“We seek a leader who genuinely carries the Spirit of God in their life—someone who can govern with wisdom and ensure that good governance reaches the grassroots. It’s not enough to simply bear the name of a Christian; the leader must be someone with a heart filled with godly fear and integrity,” he said.
While the United Church, Ogun State Chapter has not yet named a specific candidate, they remain hopeful that the right leader will emerge. The group reiterated their commitment to supporting any candidate who aligns with their values and is willing to involve them in the governance process.
As Lightup Ogun State prepares to launch in January 2025, the organisation’s members are united in their belief that Christian leadership can play a transformative role in the future of Ogun State.
“We are not opposing anyone; we are just calling for the Church to step up and make its voice heard,” said Pastor Oluwasanmi. “Our involvement is for the good of the state, and we are committed to ensuring that God’s will is done in Ogun State’s leadership.”
