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The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, has pledged to govern the state with the fear of God, compassion and a people-centred approach if elected governor in the 2027 general election.
Alli made the declaration on Sunday during a special thanksgiving service held at Word Communication Ministries (WOCOM) City in Ibadan to celebrate his emergence as the APC governorship flag bearer for the forthcoming election.
Addressing worshippers and party supporters at the event, the senator assured residents of the state that his administration would be anchored on godly leadership, integrity and a commitment to improving the welfare of the people.
According to him, Oyo State should prepare for a new era of leadership driven by compassion, accountability and genuine concern for the masses.
“I know this is not a platform for political campaigns, but I am assuring the people of Oyo State that I am here to serve. My team and I will serve with the fear of God and do everything humanly possible to make Oyo State great again,” Alli said.
The APC standard-bearer stressed that leadership should be viewed as a responsibility to serve rather than an opportunity for personal gain, adding that his aspiration was motivated by a desire to bring positive transformation to the state.
Speaking during the thanksgiving service, the General Overseer of Word Communication Ministries (WOCOM) and Presiding Apostle of Christ Family Assembly, Apostle Sunday Popoola, said Nigeria’s major challenge over the years had been the absence of leaders who genuinely fear God.
He noted that effective leadership begins with reverence for God and a sincere commitment to the welfare of the people.
“Leadership is about God and the people, and real leadership begins with the fear of God. Leaders who acknowledge God will seek divine guidance in carrying out their responsibilities,” he said.
Popoola reminded political office seekers that leadership is fundamentally about service and sacrifice.
“You are to serve the people and not merely lead them. A true leader is dead to the things of this world. You have to die to yourself and do the will of the people,” he stated.
The cleric further urged leaders to uphold justice, integrity and prudent management of public resources.
“Pursue justice and integrity. God expects leaders to administer justice accordingly, while the resources of the people must be managed faithfully and responsibly.
“People will follow any leader who respects them. How a government treats the weak is what matters to God because He is concerned about widows, the aged, the poor and the vulnerable.
“Leadership that prioritises the poor and vulnerable will attract the blessings of God,” he added.
Offering prayers for Alli and other APC candidates, Popoola described the people of Oyo State as great people deserving of visionary and responsible leadership.
“Oyo people are great people and they need a great man like you. We will continue to pray for good leadership. We pray that God will grant you good people who are not sycophants to work with you.
“God bless you, your journey and your sincere heart. God bless Oyo State,” he said.
The cleric also urged APC candidates not to sideline party members who lost during the primaries, advising them to embrace inclusiveness and reconciliation as they prepare for the 2027 polls.
He called on victorious aspirants to work with all stakeholders within the party in order to strengthen unity and improve the APC’s chances in the election.
Among APC leaders and members who attended the thanksgiving service were Hon. Remi Oseni, the party’s senatorial candidate for Oyo South Senatorial District; Sen. Yunus Akintunde – Oyo Central, Hon. Akeem Adeyemi; Hon. Folake Olunloyo, Barrister Ayanlowo Obisesan and Alhaji Wasiu Emiola.
Other prominent party chieftains present are Hon. Gbenga Olayemi, Hon Wasiu Akere, Hon. Abass Aleshinloye, Hon Sina Alabi and Sola Okunjoyo
The event attracted party faithful, religious leaders and supporters, who offered prayers for the success of the APC candidates and for peaceful political activities ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State.
