By Uzo Ugwunze
The Anglican Bishop on the Niger, Rt. Rev. Owen Nwokolo, has called on the Federal Government to strengthen electoral institutions, decisively address electoral violence and corruption, and guarantee free, fair, and transparent elections as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during his Bishop’s Charge at the second session of the 33rd Synod from June 11-14, themed “The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom,” held at St. Peter’s Anglican Church, he observed that experiences from past elections have eroded citizens’ confidence in the nation’s democratic process.
The cleric noted that campaign promises are often made with considerable enthusiasm during election periods but are frequently abandoned after electoral victories are secured. He further stated that persistent challenges, including vote buying, political manipulation, and the lack of credible and selfless leadership, have fueled widespread public disillusionment, particularly among rural residents, widows, and unemployed graduates.
According to him, Nigeria continues to grapple with the consequences of disunity, electoral malpractice, political manipulation, and a growing deficit of responsible leadership. He further identified youth unemployment and unhealthy political rivalries, including frequent defections and partisan bitterness, as factors undermining national unity and democratic development.
While commending the Federal Government for initiatives aimed at strengthening the electoral process and enhancing its credibility, Bishop Nwokolo stressed the need for more decisive measures to restore public trust. He urged political actors and other stakeholders to embrace issue-based campaigns capable of promoting accountability and preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy.
The synod, featured goodwill messages from several church and community leaders, including Ven. Frank Obi, Ven. Joseph Nweke, Archdeacon Kperechukwu Nwankwo, Pharm. Chris Ukachukwu, and Sir Felix Okeke.
The speakers expressed gratitude to God for the successful conduct of the synod and reiterated that the fear of God remains fundamental to attaining wisdom and providing effective leadership.
They further called on leaders at all levels, stakeholders, and citizens to uphold moral integrity, reject corruption, electoral violence, vote buying, and money politics, and work collectively toward the advancement and sustainable development of the nation.
Uzo Ugwunze is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
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