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Saturday, February 18, 2023

WHAT WILL BE THE OUTCOME OF THIS ELECTION?

Dearly Beloved, WHAT WILL BE THE OUTCOME OF THIS ELECTION? “Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles” (Acts 1:26 NIV). After the death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ, the apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ gathered in the upper room at Jerusalem. Under the leadership of Simon Peter, they decided to elect another person to replace Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve apostles, who betrayed Jesus and later committed suicide. A guideline was given as to who the elected person would be. Two people were proposed: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. The disciples earnestly prayed for whom they would elect from these two people. After their prayers, they cast lots, which fell to Matthias. The election outcome was that Matthias was added to the eleven apostles, and the ministry continued (see Acts of Apostles 1:12-26). There was no rancour of any kind. In fact, the next record was the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost (see Acts of Apostles 2). In less than a week, the people of Nigeria will go to the poll to elect another executive president of the nation to take over from the incumbent president after the expiration of his tenure by May 29, 2023. Out of many candidates officially seeking to be elected to the exalted position, only three are prominent. There have been campaigns of all sorts for themselves and against each other among these three major contenders and their followers. The scarcity of premium motor spirit (commonly called petrol) and money to be spent by the populace owing to the bad implementation of new currencies make life very difficult for the commoner in the country. People have been protesting violently, thereby threatening the peaceful coexistence of people. There are even apprehensions about the possibility of conducting the elections in such an uncomfortable situation. Will the election still be held in this ugly situation? If yes, what will indeed be the outcome of the election? For Nigerians eligible to vote, your right is to go and cast your vote on Election Day. Collect your permanent voter's card (PVC) (if you have not done so). Vote wisely, rightly and as your conscience leads you. Do not base your vote on any sentiment. Conduct yourselves civilly as you exercise your civic duty. Do not be involved in any activity that will breach the peace of your community. For the candidates and their supporters, know that only one person will be declared elected as the next executive president of Nigeria. Losers should take the result in good faith. Do not resort to violence of any kind. Election tribunal is there to redress any grievance. The outcome of this election in Nigeria will determine the progress or otherwise of the country. What will be the outcome of this election? In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Requests: I call on all lovers of good governance, especially Christians worldwide, to pray for Nigeria and Nigerians as we make this vital decision. Pray for peace and tranquillity before, during, and after the election. Pray for the safety of the lives of electoral officials as they conduct this election. Pray that they will really be impartial in this exercise.

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