Danie UGWO

 

Following the successful conclusion of the governorship election in Osun State, the Parish Priest of SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Pro-Cathedral, Lagere, Ile-Ife, Rev. Fr. Peter Oluseyi Adeyemi, has charged newly elected public officials to prioritize service delivery, reminding them that they are citizens, not masters over the people.

In a recent address to his parishioners, the cleric expressed gratitude to God for the peaceful conduct of the election and the commendable absence of obvious post-election bickering and violence. He urged all stakeholders to move forward and collaborate for the all-round development of Osun State. Fr. Adeyemi strongly emphasized that public projects and infrastructures are not favours bestowed upon the masses, but the fundamental rights of citizens. "The resources being used for project execution belong to all the citizens, not the family of the Senator, Commissioner, or Governor of a state," he stated, noting that authority is a divine call to service rather than domination. He further called on citizens to perform their civic duties, such as paying dues and remaining law-abiding, while holding political leaders accountable with respect and truth. Quoting George Orwell, the priest reminded the congregation that "People who elect corrupt politicians, impostors, thieves and traitors are not victims but accomplices," warning that those who refuse to vote forfeit their right to complain about bad governance. He also referenced Pope Francis, highlighting that political office should protect the vulnerable and can be an outstanding form of charity if exercised with respect for human dignity.

In another development during his address, Fr. Adeyemi challenged Christians to evaluate their personal relationship with God, categorizing it into three distinct levels: dependent, independent, and interdependent. He noted that at the dependent level, believers often reason with Christ from afar, merely acting according to what they have been told. He urged Christians to move past this foundational stage and transition from mere conviction to a deeper communion with Christ.