The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Rivers State Chapter, has waded into the state’s lingering political crisis, urging restraint, dialogue and repentance, while indicating that the Church may support a governorship candidate in the 2027 general elections to help restore stability.
Addressing journalists in Port Harcourt, PFN State Chairman, Rev. Dr. Minaibi Dagogo-Jack, voiced concern over rising political tension, unrest and what he described as unhealthy political practices in Rivers State, stressing that the Church is dissatisfied with the current situation.
He said PFN has watched recent political developments with “great dismay,” noting that the level of insecurity and unrest in the state is troubling and unacceptable.
According to him, it is time for the
Church and respected elders to speak out and correct those contributing to the crisis. He also criticised political narratives that personalise the destiny of the state, insisting that Rivers State, having been dedicated to God, should not be portrayed as the possession of any individual.
Reflecting on his experience as a former governorship candidate and opposition figure about two decades ago, Rev. Dagogo-Jack described the present political climate as unprecedented, noting that he once contested elections against the political mentors of some actors currently at the centre of the crisis.
The PFN chairman also observed that Rivers State recorded fewer votes for the President compared to some other states, yet continues to experience unusually high political tension.
He said PFN is ready to mobilise the large number of politically disengaged citizens, noting that many of the votes claimed by politicians were cast by church members.
Rev. Dagogo-Jack warned that the Church may become more actively involved in future elections if politicians fail to change their conduct, declaring that PFN in Rivers State would openly support a candidate in 2027.
“Politics is too serious to be left in the hands of politicians alone. In 2027, PFN in Rivers State will point to a candidate. If about 200,000 votes can produce a government, seven churches can produce more than that,” he said.
He lamented that fear of intimidation and attacks has silenced many citizens, including religious and traditional leaders, and identified political apathy and ingratitude among leaders as major drivers of the crisis.
