The Bus.

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has come under intense public criticism following a viral video showing members of one of its branches fervently praying over a brand-new bus emblazoned with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” campaign slogan.

The footage, which surfaced online and quickly spread across social media platforms, depicts congregants gathered around the vehicle during a church service.

They laid hands on the bus, offered loud prayers of dedication, and committed it into God’s hands for protection and fruitful use.

This is a common spiritual practice for new possessions in many Nigerian churches. 

According to reports, the bus was not donated directly to the RCCG as an institution. 

Instead, it was given to an individual church member as part of a government empowerment programme initiated by a lawmaker in the constituency. 

The beneficiary reportedly brought the vehicle to the parish for dedication before putting it to use, possibly for transport or church activities. 

The visible “Renewed Hope” branding and associated imagery triggered the controversy. 

Social media reactions have been swift and largely negative. 

Critics accuse the church of aligning with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) amid widespread economic hardship, rising cost of living, and unfulfilled campaign promises.

Some commentators sarcastically remarked that attending RCCG now equates to being an “APC disciple,” while others questioned the propriety of allowing partisan symbols inside sacred spaces. 

Defenders argue that rejecting legitimate government empowerment would be impractical for struggling members and that dedicating personal property does not amount to official endorsement by the church. 

No statement has yet been issued by RCCG’s national headquarters or General Overseer, Pastor E.A. Adeboye, on the incident, which appears limited to a single local parish.

The episode has reignited broader debates about the intersection of religion and politics in Nigeria, especially as preparations for future elections gather momentum.

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