Nigeria’s systems have collapsed except Church, Anglican Bishop laments

The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Ohaji/Egbema in Imo State, Rt. Rev. Chidi Collins Oparaojiaku, has expressed concern that every system in Nigeria has been compromised except for the Church.

The Bishop lamented that institutions such as the judiciary, the army, and the police have been completely undermined and corrupted.

Additionally, he highlighted that groups like vigilantes have transformed into political thugs, sent to communities to carry ballot boxes during elections to ensure the success of certain candidates.

In his homily at the Thanksgiving church service marking the conclusion of the Diocesan Women Conference held at St. Paul’s Church in Mgbirichi-Ohaji, the Bishop criticised Nigerian leaders for failing to fulfil their responsibilities.

He described it as shameful that some so-called leaders in Nigeria, after losing elections for elective positions or Ezeship titles, still claim to hold honorary titles such as “Honourable” or “Eze-elect.”

He said: “It’s only in Nigeria that somebody will fail an election into an elective position such as governorship, chairmanship, or the National Assembly, and he turns around to answer an Honourable”.

ALSO READ: Atiku receives Buhari’s wife, says Nigeria must become affordable again

While blaming the leaders, he expressed dismay that today in Nigeria many leaders use thugs to carry ballot boxes to win elections and answer Honourable.

Bishop Oparaojiaku expressed his shock that many Nigerians, who have been vocal about their struggles with hunger, insecurity, pain, impunity, and bad leadership, are the same individuals campaigning for politicians while wearing campaign T-shirts.

He reminded Nigerian leaders to act as shepherds who remain connected to the people and address their needs and wants. In doing so, the people will come to see and regard these leaders as their own.

He said: “It might not be difficult for people to call either their governors, president, chairmen, and leaders their own because they have not been doing what they are supposed to do”

The Bishop advised Christians to always make God their personal Shepherd who is capable of handling their challenges and supply them with their wants always.

He admonished them to always face and confront whatever challenges they have now that they are still young rather than when they are old to avoid mistakes in life.