The Methodist Church Nigeria has advised to desist from selling their votes ahead of the 2005 general elections.
Rather, it said Nigerians should vote with their conscience for candidates that offer the best possibility for improved living.
The church also called on the National Assembly to accept credible proposals put forward by the ongoing confab.
These were some of the resolutions contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the 44th\9th biennial conference of the church in Port-Harcourt, capital of Rivers State last week.
The conference with the theme ‘Let my people move forward’ attracted delegates from across the federation.
A communiqué signed by the Prelate of the church, His Eminence Dr Samuel Uche and Secretary of Conference, Rt. Rev. Raphael Opoko, said: “Electorates are charged to desist from selling their votes and to vote for credible candidates who will work for their interest on assumption of office.”
On the abduction of over 200 Chibok girls, the church urged the federal government and the international community to expedite actions on their safe return.
The church frowned against membership of secret societies and urged those involved to desist or face disciplinary actions.
It also vowed to sanction any member involved in polygamy in accordance with the rules of the church.
It was also resolved that the church should go into commercial agriculture “to support the efforts of the different tiers of government in provision of food security and employment for women and young Nigerians”.
The conference also commended the establishment of Wesley Microfinance Bank towards the empowerment of youths and the active poor, both within and outside the Church.