Northern Christian Leader Warns Politicians Against Manipulation

Northern Christian leader Joseph Hayab has cautioned politicians against greed, manipulation and poor leadership, urging public office holders to embrace integrity, accountability and serve as positive role models for younger Nigerians.

The Chairman of the Northern Christian Association, formerly Northern CAN, Joseph Hayab, has warned politicians against manipulation, greed and selfish leadership, urging them to fear God and demonstrate integrity in public service.

Hayab, who is also the Senior Pastor of Amazing Grace Baptist Church, spoke on Sunday after the dedication of a church auditorium in Gonin Gora, Kaduna State.

He stressed the need for peaceful coexistence and religious harmony, noting that Nigeria’s diversity can only be sustained through unity, tolerance and mutual respect among citizens of different faiths and ethnic backgrounds.

According to him, the fear of God remains central to wise leadership and moral responsibility, especially among those in positions of authority.

He explained that the church deliberately invited people of other faiths to its programme as part of efforts to promote interfaith understanding and national peace.

“Our Muslim friends came to celebrate with us and stayed throughout the service. This is a strong message that we need this kind of understanding in Nigeria,” he said.

Hayab added that building religious institutions alone would not guarantee peace if citizens failed to live together in harmony and mutual respect.

He called on Nigerians to work collectively to build a society rooted in love, sacrifice and peaceful coexistence for future generations.

The cleric also issued a strong warning to political leaders, noting that their conduct directly influences the behaviour and moral direction of young Nigerians.

He lamented that many youths now perceive manipulation and unethical behaviour as shortcuts to success due to the example set by some leaders.

“Our young ones are not seeing enough good examples among us,” he said, adding that manipulation is not success but a path that ultimately leads to shame and disruption.

Hayab further reminded leaders that they would one day be accountable for their actions before God, stressing that leadership is both a moral and spiritual responsibility.

He has consistently advocated for peace, justice and interfaith dialogue in Northern Nigeria, particularly in conflict-prone areas, calling on leaders to prioritise inclusive governance and national unity.