Nigerian-American gospel artist, Evangelist John Kola-Idowu, has urged Nigerian youths to reject attempts by politicians and other interest groups to use them to perpetrate violence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Kola-Idowu warned that involvement in electoral violence could jeopardise the future of young Nigerians and undermine the country’s democratic process.
He spoke in Osogbo, Osun State, at the launch of the Psalms 1-150 Global Concert, Global Choir and Global Indigenous Worship Project.
The clergy urged youths not to trade their future for financial inducements from politicians, calling on them to embrace values that promote peace and peaceful coexistence.
‘At a time when our world faces conflicts, insecurity, social division and economic challenges, we need initiatives that encourage love, understanding, hope and peaceful coexistence,’ he said.
Kola-Idowu described spiritual songs as a potential tool for addressing insecurity, social division, hopelessness and moral decline.
He said the messages contained in the Psalms could inspire young people to choose hope over despair, unity over division and positive engagement over destructive behaviour.
The gospel artist also called on governments at all levels and world leaders to prioritise peace-building, youth empowerment, cultural inclusion and moral development in efforts to tackle insecurity.
‘The fight against insecurity should go beyond security operations to address the social and moral conditions that contribute to violence, including hopelessness, intolerance and hatred,’ he said.
He added that the Psalms could provide spiritual encouragement and moral inspiration while promoting peace, justice, righteousness and love.
‘We must pray that the 2027 general election will not divide us, but rather strengthen our commitment to unity, justice and peaceful coexistence,’ he said.
Kola-Idowu also urged religious leaders to preach peace and discourage their followers from participating in electoral violence.
He said the Psalms 1-150 Global Concert, Global Choir and Global Indigenous Worship Project was designed not only as a musical initiative but also as a platform to preserve languages, empower young people, promote peace, celebrate diversity and foster unity through worship.
According to him, the global concert will feature established and emerging gospel singers, worship leaders and choirs from Africa, Europe, Asia, the Americas and other parts of the world.
He said the project would begin with online participation before expanding to physical concerts in different countries.
The initiative will feature gospel ministers including Evangelist Bola Are, Yinka Alaseyori, Woli Agba and Mike Abdul, alongside other gospel singers.