The Good Society of Ogbomoso has raised concerns over the alleged political activities of Reverend Peter Olawuyi Olaleye, pastor of New Estate Baptist Church in the Samade area of Ogbomoso, Oyo State. In a letter addressed to the president of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, the society expressed dismay at Pastor Olaleye’s reported involvement in political affairs, which they believe detracts from his religious duties.
In the letter, signed by Samuel Orodiji as the Coordinator, the society highlighted instances where Pastor Olaleye purportedly prioritized political engagements over his pastoral responsibilities. They cited his alleged chairmanship of a semi-political group called Ogbomoso Youth Forum and his involvement in a road blockade incident on the Oyo-Ogbomoso-Ilorin federal highway as examples of his diversion from his religious calling.
Furthermore, the letter accused Pastor Olaleye of acting as an errand boy for political officeholders, including the former Minister of Youth and Sports, Chief Sunday Dare. They also claimed he participated in political discussions on radio and associated closely with political groups in Ogbomoso.
Of particular concern to the society was Pastor Olaleye’s reported appointment as the Personal Assistant to the newly installed Soun of Ogbomoso and his previous role as Chief Press Secretary to the Onpetu of Ijeru. They expressed apprehension that Pastor Olaleye’s political affiliations could potentially incite communal unrest in the area.
The society called on the Nigerian Baptist Convention to intervene and urge Pastor Olaleye to choose between his religious vocation and political engagements. They emphasized the need to prevent similar occurrences among other ministers and appealed for decisive action in accordance with biblical principles, referencing Joshua 24:15.
As the controversy surrounding Pastor Olaleye unfolds, stakeholders await the response and intervention of the Nigerian Baptist Convention to address the allegations and restore the integrity of religious leadership in the community.
