Bishop Mike Okonkwo at 80: “Nigeria Needs Drastic Surgery, Not More Politicians”
Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Dr. Mike Okonkwo, has raised an alarm over Nigeria’s current political and spiritual decline, declaring that neither the nation’s leadership nor the church is fulfilling its responsibilities.
Speaking in a wide-ranging interview at the age of 80, the revered cleric expressed deep disappointment at the direction Nigeria is heading citing systemic corruption, failed political structure, and the growing gap between leaders and the people.
“The Church Has Failed the Nation”
Bishop Okonkwo lamented the widespread decay in Nigeria’s religious and moral fabric, stating that the church has focused more on personal opinions than the true gospel.
“How can we have this number of churches and still be in such a mess? The church has failed. Most men of God are not preaching the gospel but their opinions. Prayer gatherings are everywhere, but there is nothing to show for it.”
He called for a reorientation that emphasizes inward transformation through the gospel of Jesus Christ, not just outward piety or moral policing.
Politicians Focus on Elections, Not Governance
The octogenarian condemned the growing trend of politicians focusing solely on re-election instead of delivering good governance.
“A politician comes into office and immediately starts planning for the next election. That’s not governance. Nigerians clap for boreholes and painted roads like that’s a miracle. What is your job as a public servant if not to serve?”
He pointed to Abia State Governor Alex Otti as an example of performance-based leadership, saying he has earned the people’s trust simply by doing the work.
“Nigeria’s Politics Needs Drastic Surgery”
Bishop Okonkwo warned that no meaningful change will come unless Nigeria undergoes a deep political restructuring.
“Our politics is broken. It’s not about individuals or parties anymore, it needs a drastic surgery. We need a structure that allows every Nigerian, from any tribe or background, to aspire to any position without fear.”
He decried the cost of running for political office, stating that such a high barrier only guarantees the recycling of corrupt politicians.
“We’re Playing Politics With People’s Lives”
Citing incidents of mass violence, such as the burning of children in the North, Okonkwo criticized the indifference of the political elite.
“In developed countries, such tragedies would shut down parliament until solutions are found. Here, it barely makes the news. Our leaders don’t care.”
“A One-Party State? It Will Never Work”
On the recent wave of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Bishop Okonkwo dismissed fears that Nigeria is becoming a one-party state.
“Nigeria is too complex for a one-party system. Even within APC, there are internal wars. The people are more enlightened now; it will never work.”
The Church Must Hold Politicians Accountable
Okonkwo emphasized that many corrupt politicians are regular churchgoers, putting the onus on religious leaders to re-examine their teachings.
“Who’s stealing government funds? James, Mary, John – they all go to church. So, what are we preaching? Not the gospel. We preach sin instead of righteousness, opinions instead of Christ.”
He criticized modern churches for focusing on appearance, miracles, and materialism rather than true salvation and character transformation.
“It’s Time for Leaders to Think Legacy, Not Power”
According to Bishop Okonkwo, Nigeria’s leaders have failed because they prioritize power over legacy.
“If leaders thought about legacy, there are things they wouldn’t do. They have destroyed young people’s dreams. You can’t blame the youth when you leave school and there’s nothing for you, what else can you do?”
He called on the church to invest more in youth empowerment and mentorship.
On President Tinubu: “You Can Still Be Remembered for Good”
Speaking directly to President Bola Tinubu, Bishop Okonkwo urged him to consider the opportunity he has to reform Nigeria.
“You went through struggles to become president. So what’s stopping you from tearing down all the structures that are holding this country hostage? Reform the system, and history will forgive everything else.”
“Church Must Focus on Changed Hearts, Not Dress Codes”
Bishop Okonkwo also addressed debates over appearance and dress in churches, stating:
“There is appropriate and inappropriate dressing, but true change comes from the heart. You can’t preach earrings and alcohol and expect change. Only Christ transforms people.”
Age and Health: “Don’t Believe the Pulpit Lies”
Reflecting on turning 80, Bishop Okonkwo warned Christians not to be misled by pastors who claim they never fall ill or take medicine.
“They lie. Many go for checkups. People die needlessly believing they must never take drugs because a preacher said so. Age comes with limitations, it’s natural.”
