The Oyo South senatorial candidate of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) and member representing the Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Olajide Odidiomo, has urged the church in Nigeria to remain steadfast in its prophetic responsibility of speaking truth to power.

Olajide described religious institutions as the conscience of the nation and indispensable partners in promoting moral leadership, education and national development.

The lawmaker made the call during a dinner hosted by the Methodist Bishop of Ogbomoso Diocese, Rt. Rev. David Ademola Moradeyo, in honour of the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, and his wife in Ibadan.

Speaking at the event, Olajide lauded the Methodist Church for its contributions to education, moral development and nation-building, urging Christian leaders to continue holding political leaders accountable through constructive engagement and principled advocacy.

“Continue to speak truth to power. The church remains the conscience of the nation. At a time when our country is confronted with enormous social and economic challenges, Nigerians still look up to the church for moral direction, courage and hope,” he said.

Olajide also disclosed that he was a beneficiary of the Methodist educational tradition, recalling that despite being a Muslim, he attended Methodist High School, Toll Gate, Ibadan, for his secondary education.

According to him, the experience instilled values of discipline, integrity and service that have continued to influence his personal and public life.

“I am a beneficiary of the Methodist Church. Despite being a Muslim, I attended Methodist High School for my secondary education. Returning to this gathering is, therefore, a homecoming for me because this institution contributed immensely to my personal development and the values that have guided me in my public and private life,” he said.

The lawmaker stressed the need for religious institutions to continue complementing government efforts in the education sector, saying education should not be left entirely to the government.

“We should not leave education to the government alone. Religious institutions have always played a significant role in raising responsible leaders and building strong societies.

“Those of us in the political class see you as partners in progress, and we must continue to work together for the advancement of our people and our nation,” Olajide added.

Earlier, the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, appreciated the warm reception organised in his honour and urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in faith and continue to pray for leaders at all levels.

The host, Rt. Rev. David Ademola Moradeyo, commended the guests for identifying with the Methodist family.