The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has emphasized that the persistence of corruption in Nigeria can be largely attributed to Christians who have failed to live up to their calling as distinct and upright individuals.
He made this statement on Saturday during the sixth day of RCCG’s annual convention, held at the Redemption City in Mowe, Ogun State, under the theme ‘Heaven’
Adeboye strongly urged Christians to reject all forms of corruption, stressing that the moral decay in the nation is a direct result of believers compromising their values.
He asserted that if Christians had maintained their integrity, corruption could have been eradicated from the country by now.
“We talk about corruption in Nigeria. Why do you think corruption has become so deep? It is because we Christians, who are supposed to be peculiar people, are not making any difference. It’s so difficult to even know who is who,” Adeboye lamented.
He continued by challenging Christians to stand out through their conduct and character, urging them to remain steadfast in their faith, even if it means losing opportunities like promotions.
“You must be as pure as light. People must be able to see you at a distance and know that this is a candidate for heaven. In your behaviour, character, you must be different. If you want to compromise because of promotion, let them take their promotion because you are a peculiar person. The world will hate you because of your standard because your standard is that of God,” he said.
To illustrate the importance of integrity, the renowned cleric recounted the story of one of his spiritual daughters who was offered a road construction contract. Initially, she proposed a budget of N3 million, but was asked to inflate it to N33 million.
She refused the offer, firmly stating, “I am a child of God. How will I spend the money?” Her refusal was met with surprise, as if she were an anomaly in a world accustomed to corruption.
In another instance, Adeboye shared the story of another Christian contractor who was awarded a project to tar a road, only to discover that the road had already been completed.
When she reported this to the authorities, they dismissed her concerns, instructing her to simply take the money and pay them their share.
Adeboye concluded by urging Christians to avoid living double lives and to reject all forms of corruption, reminding them that they are called to be a light in the world.
