By Ifeyinwa Ogwo
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has called on church leaders to embrace transformational Christianity that builds responsible individuals and a better society, rather than focusing on transactional teachings centred on material gain.
The governor made the call during the Dominion City Church Shift and Holy Spirit Conference 2026, themed “Raising Leaders That Transform Society,” held at the International Convention Centre (ICC), Awka, on June 27.
Addressing participants, Governor Soludo said the Church must return to the core teachings of Jesus Christ by promoting integrity, diligence, honesty and responsible living.
“We want responsible Christianity as Jesus Christ taught us, not the kind where some pastors swindle people of their money and create division, enmity and chaos within families,” he said.
The governor criticised messages that suggest financial prosperity comes automatically through faith, seed sowing and tithing without hard work, warning that such teachings misrepresent the true gospel.
“Some people preach that there is a crown without a cross. When people believe such messages and the promised results do not come, they begin to see Christianity as a scam. That is not the gospel Jesus Christ preached,” he said.
Quoting the Scriptures, Soludo stressed that hard work remains a fundamental Christian value.
“The Bible says that anyone who does not work should not eat. Do we still preach that? When pastors need money, the congregation gives willingly, but when members need help, they are simply told to pray. We must return to true Christianity by reviving the values of diligence, respect and honesty,” he added.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling criminality disguised as religion or traditional practices, earn that fake pastors and practitioners of fetish practices, including the notorious “Oke Ite,” would continue to face the full weight of the law.
Earlier, the General Overseer of Dominion City Worldwide, Pastor David Ogbueli, welcomed Governor Soludo and his entourage, commending the administration for creating a peaceful and secure environment in Anambra State.
He recalled that upon arriving in Awka, members of the ministry sought assurance about the city’s security and were confidently informed that they could safely remain until late in the evening.
Pastor Ogbueli said the Church has a responsibility to nurture leaders who will positively influence society by producing responsible citizens, committed families, ethical professionals and principled public servants.
“Our mission is to raise leaders who will transform society. We must not only believe in Jesus Christ but also live by the moral values and virtues He taught,” he said.
The conference brought together church leaders, ministers and worshippers from different parts of the country to discuss leadership, character development and the Church’s role in building a more responsible and value-driven society.
Ifeyinwa Ogwo is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
