FOLLOWING the tragedy at the Holy Ghost Ministry Adoration ground at Uke in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State where about 25 persons died in a stampede, the senior pastor of Shepherdhill Baptist Church, Lagos, Rev Israel Kristilere has warned politicians to stay clear of church premises for their campaigns.

Reacting to the stampede that followed what was said to be tussles among political parties to turn the all-night prayer session to a campaign rally ahead of the Anambra governorship election, scheduled for Saturday where 25 persons died and over 200 others injured, Kristilere said religious premises and facilities must never be used to garner political supports or mobilise for votes.

According to him, churches are not arenas where politicians canvass for votes, instead, he said, they are sacred sanctuaries where government officials and politicians must be told the truth at all times.

Addressing newsmen ahead of the church’s Just Worship session slated for Friday, November 22, Kristilere said: “It is one of the craziest things we see in this country. You see politicians currying the favour of church leaders and using their platforms to seek for electoral fortu-nes.

“I think it’s high time men of God stop playing God and allow God to cleanse His Church which must not be used for political campaigns.

“It’s a shame many men of God encourage this. It must be stopped to avert incurring the wrath of God,” he said.

On the proposed national conference, Kristilere said there was nothing wrong in dialoguing, saying that the recommendations of the dialogue should not be subjected to approval of the National Assembly.

Worship, according to Kristilere, is a veritable weapon of divine intervention that Nigerians have not utilised. Theme of the event expected to attract over 7,000 worshippers at the new ultra-modern auditorium of the ShepherdhillBaptistChurch, Obanikoro Lagos, is “Glorious God”. Ministers include Lara George, Dupe Olulana, Erujeje, Phil and Lola Adika, The Proclaimers, Sax Angel, Funmi Sax, The Indian Christian Congregation, Yabatech Baptist Students Fellowship, Shepherd’s Voice International etc.