Senior Pastor of Daystar Christian Centre, Sam Adeyemi, has called on Nigerian political leaders to refocus on national unity and compassionate governance, warning that rising ethnic division and power politics are eroding public trust and worsening the country’s development challenges.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday, Adeyemi criticised the current state of political leadership in Nigeria, saying many leaders have become disconnected from the economic realities and daily struggles of ordinary Nigerians.
“Some of our leaders have clearly lost touch with the plight of the poor,” Adeyemi said. “They lack empathy and compassion. The fear of losing power now drives many to switch parties, not because of ideology, but for self-preservation.”
The cleric expressed concern over the dominance of political “godfathers” who, he said, exert influence over who attains office, often at the expense of merit and popular will. According to him, this system has entrenched corruption, weakened accountability, and created a culture where public office is treated as a reward rather than a responsibility.
“Until leadership is built on service and integrity rather than survival and control, we will continue to recycle underperformance,” Adeyemi stated.
He cited former President Olusegun Obasanjo as an example of a leader who made deliberate efforts to rise above ethnic politics, noting that Obasanjo consistently pushed for national cohesion and avoided ethnic favouritism in public appointments.
“Obasanjo’s resistance to ethnic bias in governance set an example. Leadership should unite, not divide,” he said.
Adeyemi also recalled a conversation with an expatriate who expressed concern over reports that certain officials within the Presidential Villa were promoting divisive narratives that blamed Northerners for national challenges. He described such rhetoric as dangerous and counterproductive.
“Using ethnic or religious scapegoating to explain national failures only deepens division. What Nigeria needs is leadership that listens, understands, and prioritises national interest,” he added.
The pastor called for reforms that create an environment conducive to sound decision-making by leaders, particularly in the areas of economic policy, security, and public service delivery.
According to Adeyemi, genuine progress can only be achieved when leaders put aside personal ambition and focus on rebuilding trust with citizens. He stressed the importance of empathy, national unity, and inclusive development.
“We must reconnect with the people. The purpose of leadership is not to survive in power but to serve the people and build a better nation,” he said.
Adeyemi’s comments come amid growing public frustration over the economic situation, security concerns, and the widening gap between political elites and the general population. His message aligns with ongoing calls from civil society and business leaders for a renewed focus on good governance, equity, and national integration.
