Ilechukwu Urges Leaders to Uphold Integrity, Citizens to Reject Vote Buying

 

By Atlantic Reports

The General Overseer of Charismatic Renewal Ministries, Dr Cosmas Ilechukwu, has urged political leaders to manage public resources transparently and adopt long-term development plans, while calling on citizens to demand accountability and reject vote buying.

Ilechukwu spoke on Sunday in Abuja at a Special Prayer Service for Nigeria and its Leaders organised by The Change We Need Nigeria Initiative (TCWNNI).

The cleric, who convenes the initiative, said building a country that meets Nigerians’ aspirations required integrity, effective institutions and collective responsibility.

He urged leaders to uphold the rule of law at every level of government and ensure that public funds were managed responsibly.

Citizens Have a Role in Development

Ilechukwu said government action must be supported by citizens’ participation.

“However, no matter how well-intentioned the government is, it cannot do much without the active, positive participation of the people,” he said.

He encouraged Nigerians to obey the law, vote in elections and fulfil their civic responsibilities.

“People who are interested in nation building must be intentional about social cohesion,” he said.

“They must be ready to hold their leaders accountable if they are interested in nation building, demand transparency and reject vote buying.”

Ilechukwu, who is also Deputy President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, described national development as a partnership between government and the people.

His appeal linked citizens’ responsibilities with the obligation of public officials to govern openly and account for their decisions.

Sustained Effort Beyond Prayer

Drawing on the biblical account of Nehemiah, Ilechukwu urged those committed to nation-building to remain focused despite opposition.

He said countries were built systematically and gradually, requiring sustained effort rather than short-term approaches.

The annual prayer programme provided the setting for his call to match concern for Nigeria’s future with practical action, from transparent leadership to electoral participation and stronger community relationships.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.