Oyedepo: Nigerians Have the Right to Choose Their Leaders, Urges Citizens to Defend Democracy
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
By Owuihe Modesta
The Founder and Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners' Chapel), Bishop David Oyedepo, has reaffirmed the constitutional and democratic right of Nigerians to determine those who govern them, urging citizens to actively participate in the electoral process and safeguard the nation's democracy.
Speaking during a church service, the respected cleric emphasized that the authority to elect leaders belongs solely to the people and should never be taken for granted. He stressed that democracy can only flourish when citizens are conscious of their civic responsibilities and freely exercise their voting rights.
"We have a right to determine who governs us," Oyedepo declared while addressing the congregation, noting that the future of any nation is shaped by the collective decisions of its citizens at the ballot box.
According to him, every eligible voter carries a responsibility not only to vote but also to ensure that their voice contributes to building a society founded on justice, accountability, and good governance.
The bishop's remarks come at a time when political activities are gradually gathering momentum ahead of Nigeria's 2027 general elections, with political parties, civic organizations, and electoral stakeholders intensifying conversations on voter participation, electoral reforms, and democratic accountability.
Oyedepo urged Nigerians not to surrender their constitutional rights through apathy or indifference, stressing that citizens must appreciate the significance of their votes in determining the direction of the country.
He maintained that the legitimacy of any democratic government rests on the freely expressed will of the people, adding that active civic engagement remains one of the strongest pillars of sustainable democracy.
The cleric further encouraged citizens to remain informed, participate peacefully in the democratic process, and make decisions that would promote national development, unity, and prosperity.
Bishop David Oyedepo has consistently spoken on issues affecting national development, leadership, governance, and the moral responsibility of citizens. Over the years, while avoiding partisan endorsements, he has repeatedly encouraged Nigerians to embrace righteousness, accountability, and responsible leadership as essential ingredients for national transformation.
His latest remarks add to growing calls by religious leaders, civil society organizations, and democracy advocates urging Nigerians to become more involved in the electoral process as preparations gradually begin for the next election cycle.
Political analysts have also argued that voter participation remains critical to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that elected leaders are held accountable to the electorate.
Nigeria's democratic journey since the return to civilian rule in 1999 has witnessed significant improvements alongside persistent challenges, including voter apathy, electoral violence, vote-buying, and concerns over election credibility. These issues have continued to generate nationwide debate on the need for electoral reforms and increased civic education.
Observers believe that influential voices such as religious and traditional leaders can play a significant role in encouraging peaceful participation and promoting democratic values among citizens.
Oyedepo's statement has generated widespread reactions across social media platforms and among political observers.
Many Nigerians applauded the cleric for reminding citizens of their constitutional rights and responsibilities, describing his message as timely amid increasing political activities across the country.
Some commentators argued that the statement reinforces the need for Nigerians to reject voter apathy and participate actively in choosing leaders who demonstrate competence, integrity, and accountability.
Others noted that while citizens possess the constitutional right to elect their leaders, government institutions and electoral stakeholders must also ensure that elections remain transparent, credible, peaceful, and reflective of the genuine will of the electorate.
Several civic groups also welcomed the remarks, emphasizing that sustained voter education and public enlightenment are essential to strengthening democratic governance and restoring public confidence in Nigeria's electoral system.
Political analysts believe that as the country approaches another election cycle, continued advocacy by respected national figures could inspire greater voter turnout and encourage citizens to hold elected officials accountable before and after elections.
For many observers, Oyedepo's message serves as a reminder that democracy is not sustained by elections alone but by the continuous participation, vigilance, and commitment of citizens to protecting the values upon which democratic governance is built.
