By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
The founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, has urged worshippers to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that Christians have a right to determine who rules and governs the nation.
Oyedepo made the call while delivering a sermon titled ‘Breaking the Curses of Life’ during a service at Canaanland, Ota, Ogun State, on Sunday, July 12.
He described participation in electoral processes as a civic responsibility, saying that Christians should refrain from remaining indifferent to political processes.
The cleric stressed that citizens have a constitutional right to participate in governance through the ballot box, adding that it is part of the church’s foundational principles.
“We have a civic responsibility as responsible citizens of our various nations. This church is today in 144 nations. Endeavour to secure your voter’s card. You are men and women of the Spirit and should know, on your own personal conviction, where to cast your vote.
“We are not passers-by in our nations. We are bona fide citizens of the nation, and we have a right to participate in who governs us.
“So please go ahead. It is part of our policy, and you will find it in the mandate. Ensure that you secure your voter’s right,” Oyedepo said.
The bishop, however, reiterated the church’s non-partisan stance, noting that he had never personally campaigned for political office or sought votes for himself.
He said, “I have never carried a ballot box in my life, so I am not asking you to get your voter’s card so you can vote for me. I am already voted for.
“But we have a right to determine who rules us. And this church, with the millions that we have, has a say in it. So be part of it.”
Oyedepo’s call comes days after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) extended the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks, from the previous deadline of July 10 to July 24.
The electoral commission also introduced an online self-service registration option for eligible first-time voters from July 8.
INEC said the decision followed a review of the ongoing exercise and feedback from state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders.
The commission said the extension of the nationwide CVR, which commenced on August 18, 2025, is to allow more eligible citizens to register ahead of future elections.
