Former Honourable Member of Assembly, State of Osun representing Ife East Constituency,

Honourable Olusegun Adeyeni, has called on men of God not to run away from politics, to correct the

abnormalities in it.

He stated that religious leaders should always practise what they preach, "be a role model and good

to all people. They should not only minister in words alone, but in cash and kinds."

This was said at “Community Today” programme of CEOAfrica at 24, Onireke, Ibadan. He said that

leaders that are currently serving should do it right and be contented with what they have.

The man of God, who is also into politics, said his experience in the state House of Assembly is God’s

help. He never regretted going to the House of Assembly because he moved with people that really

helped him in his aspiration and vision. He stated that finding himself in politics is "an inspiration,

inborn to him, and call for service."

Hon Adeniyi stated that politics is not a dirty game to him, "it depends on the way and manner in

which it is practised and handled, the way and manner one present oneself to people, community

and other politicians. As a man of God, the fear of the Lord is the key word in politics.

"People with different background come into politics, to get what they want at all cost resulting in

chaos and crises. Throughout my four years in office as a politician, I did not have hooligans or

anyone that will fight for me.  But I have people that we prayed along to achieve our goals," he said.

Hon Adeniyi emphasised that his philosophy during service in the House of Assembly was to

empower people. "If the masses are empowered, they will do things on their own.

"I was the first person during my tenure in the Osun State House of Assembly that did

empowerment, rural network and rural electrification in my constituency. I empowered fashion

designers, bricklayers, hair dressers and so on. I provided generating plants to two police stations in

my constituency (one in Ife and Modakeke)," Hon Adeniyi stated.

He said corruption is everywhere in the society but eyes are majorly on the politicians.

"It is not based on money alone, it is also based on character. Before a politician is voted in, his

origin should be traced, starting from his character in the community to his attitude to human

endeavours and human development. Politicians cannot embezzle money alone, they will have to

conspire with the secretaries and directors in the various ministries."