The founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, has urged Christians and other eligible Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that citizens have a constitutional right and civic responsibility to participate in choosing their leaders.
Oyedepo made the call on Sunday while delivering a sermon titled “Breaking the Curses of Life” during a church service at Canaanland, Ota, Ogun State.
Addressing thousands of worshippers, the renowned cleric said Christians should not remain indifferent to political developments in their countries but should actively take part in the democratic process through voting.
According to him, responsible citizenship goes beyond paying taxes and obeying the law. He said citizens must also participate in determining who governs them by exercising their voting rights during elections.
“We have a civic responsibility as responsible citizens of our various nations,” Oyedepo told the congregation.
The bishop noted that Living Faith Church has members in many countries around the world and encouraged worshippers everywhere to obtain the documents needed to vote in their respective nations.
“This church is today in 144 nations. Endeavour to secure your voter’s card. You are men and women of the Spirit and should know, based on your personal conviction, who to cast your vote for,” he said.
Oyedepo highlighted that Christians are full citizens of their countries and should not see themselves as outsiders in national affairs.
“We are not passers-by in our nations. We are bona fide citizens of the nation and we have a right to participate in who governs us,” he said.
He added that securing a voter’s card should be regarded as an important civic duty and encouraged members of the church to ensure they are properly registered before the next election cycle.
“So please go ahead. It is part of our policy and you will find it in the mandate. Ensure that you secure your voter’s right,” he said.
While encouraging political participation, Oyedepo was careful to restate the church’s non-partisan position. He said the church does not endorse political parties or candidates and that members should make their choices based on personal conviction.
The cleric also noted that he had never personally sought political office or campaigned for votes.
“I have never carried a ballot box in my life, so I am not going to ask anyone to vote for me. I am already voted for,” he said.
“But we have a right to determine who rules us. And this church, with the millions that we have, has a say in it. So be part of it.”
His comments come as political discussions surrounding the 2027 general elections continue to gather momentum across the country. Although the elections are still months away, political parties, interest groups and civil society organisations have begun encouraging citizens to register and participate in the electoral process.
In Nigeria, voter registration and the issuance of Permanent Voter Cards are handled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The PVC remains a key requirement for participation in elections, as voters must present the card before they can be accredited to vote.
Over the years, religious leaders have played significant roles in encouraging citizens to participate in elections and hold public office holders accountable. Many church leaders and Islamic clerics have repeatedly urged Nigerians to vote peacefully and responsibly during election periods.
However, religious organisations have often maintained that while they can encourage civic participation, they should not be used as platforms for partisan political campaigns.
Oyedepo’s latest remarks reflect a growing concern among many stakeholders about voter participation in Nigeria. Despite the country’s large population, voter turnout in recent elections has remained relatively low compared to the number of registered voters.
The founder of Living Faith Church has, over the years, spoken on national issues, including leadership, economic challenges, security and national development. His messages often focus on the responsibilities of both leaders and citizens in building a better society.
Sunday’s message was no exception, as he reminded worshippers that voting is one of the most important ways citizens can influence the direction of their country.
His call is also coming at a time when many Nigerians are expressing concerns about economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and other challenges facing the nation. These issues are expected to dominate political debates as the country moves closer to the next general elections.