Stop praying for corrupt leaders’

The senior pastor, Shepherd Baptist Church, Obanikoro, Lagos, Rev. Israel Kristilere, has advised pastors to stop hobnobbing and praying for corrupt leaders.

He, however, recommended that they should focus their prayers on the nation so that God could turn things around for the good of all. Kristilere, who gave this advice on Tuesday while briefing journalists on his ‘just worship’ programme, which he said would come up later this month, said it would be a praise night for God to enthrone righteousness, and progress in the nation.

He said, “Men of God should not be seen hobnobbing with or praying for corrupt leaders. It is time for men of God to preach the truth, and not for them to take money from corrupt politicians to build gigantic churches. Religious leaders should preach righteousness.

“At present, we have so many messages that are not leading people to righteousness but they focus on prosperity and materialism. I am not against prosperity, but I believe that prosperity without righteousness is no prosperity.”

Kristilere, who also commented on the national dialogue initiated by President Goodluck Jonathan, said he would support the initiative provided there would be no-go area.

He said, “There is nothing wrong with having national dialogue. Dialogue is a way of solving problems, even in marriage. But most of the time, when the government calls for a dialogue, it ends up being a monologue.

“But why is it now that 2015 is around the corner, that suddenly we are having a national dialogue? I will support this national dialogue if the outcome will be subjected to the National Assembly for final ratification.”

Expatiating about the worship night holding on November 22, he said about 7,000 believers were expected and some gospel singers had been invited, including Lara George, Dupe Olulana and Funmi Sax.