Former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has issued a stern spiritual warning to politicians across Nigeria, stating that those who wield authority for personal enrichment will face divine retribution.
Power is a Divine Trust, Not for Personal Gain
Speaking at a recent event, Obaseki framed political leadership as a sacred responsibility bestowed by God. He argued that the core purpose of politics must be the tangible improvement of citizens' lives, not the selfish acquisition of power and wealth.
"If you are in politics to get power, and you get the power and it’s only for you and your friends and the people close to you, then God will punish you," the former governor declared. He emphasized that power is a divine trust meant to serve humanity and glorify God, and failure to do so constitutes a betrayal of both God and the electorate.
No Regrets and a Call for Continuity
Reflecting on his own eight-year tenure, Obaseki stated he had no regrets and would not change his approach if given another chance. "What would I do differently if I had another opportunity? Nothing. I will do it in the same way. In fact, I will do it even more," he asserted.
He expressed only that he wished some key reforms, especially in the education sector, had begun earlier to allow their impact to be more visible. Obaseki also explained that his deliberate support for a chosen successor was a strategic move to ensure the continuity of his administration's policies and reforms for the benefit of the people.
A Warning Against Dismantling Progress
The former governor cautioned those who might seek to undo the programmes his government implemented. He stressed that such actions ultimately harm ordinary citizens, not the former leaders.
"When I see people trying to destroy what we did, I say you add to what you met, not destroy it," Obaseki advised. He gave a poignant example, noting that closing down a hospital or removing a health insurance scheme hurts the populace who need those services, which could one day include the family members of those in power.
He concluded with a powerful question for current officeholders: "How can somebody gain power today, and sleep well and be happy, seeing that so many people are not able to eat and suffer? What is the purpose? Because God has given you power, you don’t see the purpose."
