Guest Writer: Barr. Joshua Danladi Ephraim.
Key Texts: Matthew 5:13–16; Jeremiah 29:7; Proverbs 29:2; Esther 4:14; Romans 13:1–7; Micah 6:8.
“If you are not on the table, you are on the menu.”
This statement reminds us that those who refuse to participate in the affairs that shape society often become victims of decisions made by others. Political apathy is therefore not neutrality; it is the surrender of influence.
Political apathy is the lack of interest or participation in the political and civic life of a nation. It manifests itself when people refuse to register as voters, fail to vote, avoid public issues or conclude that their participation does not matter. Unfortunately, many Christian youths in Nigeria have adopted this attitude.
The first question we must ask is whether the Bible supports responsible civic engagement. The answer is yes. Jesus called His followers “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.” Salt preserves, and light dispels darkness. Neither fulfils its purpose by remaining hidden. Jeremiah instructed God’s people to seek the peace and prosperity of the city where they lived, while Paul taught that government is ordained by God to maintain order. Christians therefore have a responsibility to contribute positively to society.
Why then are many Christian youths politically apathetic?
Several factors account for this. Some have been taught that politics is too dirty for Christians. Others have become discouraged by corruption, electoral malpractice and broken promises. Many lack civic education and do not understand the Constitution or the electoral process. Poverty and unemployment also make many vulnerable to manipulation. Ethnic and religious divisions have discouraged others, while the absence of good role models and effective mentorship has left many young people without direction.
The consequences of political apathy are serious. When good people withdraw, bad leadership flourishes. When responsible citizens remain silent, corruption grows stronger. When Christians abandon the public square, decisions affecting education, justice, security, religious freedom and national development are made without their constructive influence. Democracy cannot succeed where responsible citizens refuse to participate.
The Bible provides inspiring examples of believers who influenced society without compromising their faith. Joseph administered Egypt with wisdom and integrity. Moses led Israel with humility and courage. Deborah judged the nation with justice. Daniel served successive governments without corruption. Esther used her position to save her people, while Nehemiah combined prayer with practical action to rebuild Jerusalem. These examples demonstrate that public service and godliness are not enemies.
The solution to political apathy begins with spiritual renewal. Christian youths must first surrender their lives completely to Christ because righteous leadership begins with righteous character. They must also develop themselves intellectually, understand the Constitution, know their civic responsibilities and prepare for leadership. Churches should intentionally teach responsible citizenship, provide civic education and mentor future leaders. Pastors should preach biblical principles relating to justice, integrity and public responsibility while avoiding partisan politics.
Christian youths also have personal responsibilities. They should register as voters, participate peacefully in elections, reject vote-buying and political violence, refuse corruption, speak the truth, obey lawful authority and become agents of peace and reconciliation. They should use social media responsibly, promote national unity and hold public officials accountable through lawful and peaceful means.
As Nigeria moves towards future elections, Christian youths must remember that their loyalty is first to Christ and then to the common good. They should support leaders based on integrity, competence, justice and accountability rather than ethnicity, religion or political slogans. Elections should never divide the Church or destroy Christian fellowship.
In conclusion, Nigeria does not simply need more politicians; she needs men and women of integrity. She needs Christian youths who will carry the values of Christ into every sphere of national life. God has not called us to isolate ourselves from society but to transform society through righteous influence.
Let every Christian youth therefore resolve to live a life of integrity, pray for the nation, participate responsibly in civic affairs, reject corruption and prepare for leadership. If we fail to participate, others will shape the future without us. But if we rise in faith, wisdom and courage, God can use this generation to build a more just, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
May God raise a generation of Christian youths who will shine as the light of the world, preserve society as the salt of the earth and serve Nigeria faithfully to the glory of God.
- Barrister Ephraim is a lawyer, politician and former Special Adviser to the Kaduna State Government
QUOTE
As Nigeria moves towards future elections, Christian youths must remember that their loyalty is first to Christ and then to the common good. They should support leaders based on integrity, competence, justice and accountability rather than ethnicity, religion or political slogans