As Nigerians strategise towards the 2023 general elections, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Lagos State branch, has directed all Pentecostal churches in the state to appoint a Church Officer of Politics (COP) in each of their parishes and branches.

Bishop Theophilus Tawo Ajose, State Director, Directorate of Politics and Governance, Lagos and Deputy Director, DPG (South West), PFN, in a statement on Saturday, reminded Pentecostal churches in Lagos State to appoint a Church Officer of Politics (COP) in each of their parishes and branches in alignment with PFN National DPG operational guidelines.

Ajose said: “All the COP of various Pentecostal churches and parishes in Lagos State should register with PFN, Lagos at the DPG, chapter and the province secretariats at their domiciled wards and LGs/LCDAs.

“The prophetic political destiny of the church at this point requires political actions rather than political sermons; setting aside of doctrinal and denominational barriers, put in place political and partisan engagements, involvement, education, enlightenment and a sense of prophetic responsibility.

“This must be seen as a collective responsibility of the Church if we must bridge the already widened political gap and restore the authority, relevance and political gains of the church.

“Church fathers and leaders are hereby implored to direct and release all their members and followers to register for, or update, their Permanent Voter Cards (PVC) and do a follow-up for the collection of their PVC at the designated local government councils.

“All Christians are advised to urgently join any political party of their choice at the ward (grassroots) levels and participate actively in political activities of that party while always upholding righteousness.” (SUNDAY INDEPENDENT)