Why I abandoned my political career for pulpit-Femi Emmanuel

By Olaoluwa Ajifolokun

A former Deputy Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Pastor Femi Emmanuel has explained why he had to quit politics many years ago to go into full-time ministry work

He gave the explanation, in a recent message cited online by our correspondent

He told his listeners that despite enjoying the privileges of his political position, it got to the point that he had to return to his long-standing passion for preaching the gospel.

The former politician began his career in business, importing Bibles and books from America and England. His bookshop thrived, but politics soon called, and he became a well-known figure, serving as Deputy Speaker in the Oyo State House of Assembly.

“I enjoyed the political life, the state visits, the conferences, staying in big hotels, and having all the protocols around me,” he said.

His name became a household name in Oyo State, and his political career rose. He was even on track for the National Assembly.

However, while his career flourished, the deep burden of preaching the gospel beckoned.

Called to ministry

He said in 1993 while serving as Deputy Speaker, he felt a clear calling to ministry. Despite attempts from political leaders like Chief Lamidi Adedibu, Lam Adesina, and Rasheed Ladoja to convince him to stay in politics, he knew his future was in serving God. “They couldn’t understand when I said I was called to be a pastor. They thought I could do both,” he said.

His decision to leave politics was met with surprise, and even disappointment, from his supporters, some of whom cried over his departure. Yet, he held to his conviction that his calling to ministry was stronger than politics..

Pastor Emmanuel is now the General Overseer of Living Spring Chapel International which he started while still serving as speaker of the Oyo State National Assembly. The ministry has been thriving since he gave all his attention to it.

Looking back, he is certain that he made the right choice. “There is nothing better than serving God,” he said. “Serving God is not just coming to church; it’s about bringing people to Christ.”

His political career may have ended, but his mission to serve through preaching is ongoing and fulfilling.