I am your friend, Dr. Charles Apoki. I recently watched a video by Aisha Yesufu in response to Mr. Julius Abure’s accusations, and I must say I was overwhelmed by her detailed analysis. Aisha’s insistence on doing things properly, her record-keeping, and her desire for a different approach truly stood out. It’s rare to see such dedication in a country where, sadly, most people whether pastors, politicians, traditional rulers, or even family members view every opportunity as a chance to steal or cheat.
I’ve been reflecting on this disturbing reality in Nigeria. It seems that everyone wants to cut corners, do things shabbily, and then expect extraordinary results. Just the other day, I thought to myself, “With the current cost of premium motor spirit (fuel), I bet my wife will start noticing shortages in her vehicles’ tanks.” This is because I know that drivers, like mosquitoes, love to siphon fuel whenever they get the chance. This tendency to cheat is everywhere in Nigeria, and it’s disheartening.
In the video, Aisha pointed out how polling agents didn’t show up at their stations despite having submitted lists. Millions were requested, but nothing was done. This is the same issue we face with people collecting billions for contracts they never fulfill. It’s the same with students who cheat their way through primary school exams and expect me to admit them into my school. It doesn’t work like that.
Too many people in Nigeria think we can compromise, that everyone is corruptible. Some even believe they are above reproach “sacred cows” as they like to think of themselves. They expect that their sins will be overlooked just because of who they are or whom they admire. But Aisha, I salute you! Your courage is something I respect deeply. In this country, people who stand for the truth are hated, and those who want things done properly are marginalized.
I recall a bishop once questioned how my daughter was running our school. I told him, “The way you run your church, I hear things about you too. Mind your church, and I’ll mind my school.” I’ve put my daughter in charge because she adheres to the principles that have worked for us, and I won’t allow anyone’s mediocrity, stupidity, or idiocy to interfere. If you do things anyhow, you’ll get results that reflect that “anyhow” attitude. We must reorient ourselves to do things properly. You cannot behave recklessly and expect to say “amen” and see miracles. It doesn’t work that way.
I’ve been thinking about the church recently, and the rubbish that’s been happening pastors manipulating people just to collect money from Nigerians. Many of these so-called “big men of God” that people worship have run out of ideas. They’ve lost sight of what this generation needs to prosper. Instead, they tell all these grandiose stories to exploit the desperation of Nigerians.
It’s heartbreaking to witness the scramble for the souls of Nigerians, not for salvation, but for their pockets. The same goes for the wealth of this country—it’s not being harnessed for development, but to line the pockets of those who should be leading us forward. Sadly, the greed, theft, and manipulation by our rulers is more desperate and wicked than anything we’ve seen in previous generations.
But there is hope. Aisha Yesufu, Peter Obi, and people like you give me hope. We need more people of integrity like you in our country, in our states, and in our ministries. I believe God is raising a new generation of pastors and preachers who will not follow this nonsense we’re seeing today. I appeal to the Anglican, Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, and Roman Catholic Churches: the future of Christianity in Nigeria is in your hands. We Pentecostals have missed it big time. Yes, there are still good ones among us, but a lot of us have strayed. It’s time for a new generation that will preach Christ crucified, hate sin, and not cover it up or pamper it.
In closing, I want to express my appreciation to Aisha Yesufu, Peter Obi, and all men and women of integrity in this country. God bless you. Also, remember I have a seminar coming up on the 13th and 14th of September just three days away. If you’re interested, send me a message, and I’ll share the flyer with you. I am still Dr. Charles Apoki, and God bless you.
