by Mark Bassey

Pastor Paul Adefarasin, has revealed that he will not participate in the March 28 elections.

The Senior Pastor of House on the Rock Church, took time out before his sermon on Sunday, March 8, to speak about the church’s new campaigns, which kicked off with hashtags like #IAmAPeaceMaker #SayNoToViolence #IStandForPeace etc.

But here are 4 reasons why Pastor Paul’s comments doesn’t sound right.

 

1. It sends out a wrong message

Pastor Paul Adefarasin is one of the most important and trendiest pastor in this part of the world. House on the Rock can be found in over 30 states of the nation and their influence even goes beyond. A lot of people will not vote simply because Adefarasin has said so. At the end of the day, important votes will be missing from the ballot box. And you know what they say about the power of a single vote.

 

2. Being partisan and voting are two different things

The Senior Pastor of HOTR has repeatedly emphasised that he is non-partisan and his church is apolitical. One would think he is sort of taking the easy route out by refusing to vote on March 28. Adefarasin had previously admitted that he has his personal preferences in both parties. It is then a bit confusing as to what he has decided not to vote for them, with few days left before the elections.

 

3. It adds to the confusion

A few weeks ago, Rev Uma Upkai clearly warned members without their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs), that they will not be served the holy communion in his church. As extreme and possibly out of line that sounds, Adefarasin’s stance twists it into a little conundrum. Why should I bother harrassing INEC officials or standing in endless queues to pick up mine, when my man of God will not even vote?

 

4. Lead by example

The church has been in earnest prayers for peace and progress in Nigeria. This kind will not go away by fasting and prayers, but by queueing and voting for our preferred candidates. Adefarasin, knowing fully well how much he is respected and followed, should have laid down this marker and make a big statement, that the church is ready not just to have faith, but to back it up with works.