…Blasts political elite for prioritizing 2027 endorsements over citizens’ welfare

By Chimaobi Nwaiwu

NNEWI – The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Diocese of Amichi, has expressed deep concern over the state of the nation, condemning the prevailing hunger, mass unemployment, insecurity, and systemic failures despite Nigeria’s status as the fifth-largest oil-producing country in the world.

Delivering his Presidential Address at the Second Session of the 6th Synod of the Diocese, held at Immanuel Anglican Church, Akwaihedi in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State, the Bishop of the Diocese, Rt. Rev. Ephraim Ikeakor, said Nigeria is “bleeding to death” due to the insensitivity and corruption of its leaders.

Speaking under the Synod theme “Heathens in Church Uniform: Call for Re-evangelisation and Proper Discipline of Church Members”, Bishop Ikeakor described Nigerian politicians as “heartless, wicked, insensitive, and desperate,” accusing them of thriving on the suffering of impoverished citizens.

“Despite being one of the most naturally endowed countries in the world, Nigeria continues to wallow in hunger, weaponized poverty, mass unemployment, and an embarrassing number of out-of-school children,” the Bishop lamented. “Our healthcare system is comatose, the education sector is dysfunctional, and the country is drowning in inflation and insecurity.”

The Synod berated political leaders for neglecting pressing national issues in favor of early endorsements for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

“What has this government done to deserve such premature endorsements?” Ikeakor queried. “Our hospitals are collapsing, the judiciary is compromised, the legislature has become a rubber stamp, and innocent citizens are being slaughtered daily while the President remains mute.”

Citing rising cases of violence by armed herdsmen across states like Benue, Plateau, Zamfara, and Enugu, the Bishop criticized President Tinubu’s silence, asking why he has failed to directly address or act decisively on the ongoing bloodshed.

He condemned excessive borrowing by the federal government, questioning the rationale behind spending N39 billion to renovate the International Conference Centre while critical sectors like health and education remain underfunded.

“We are living in a nation where human life has no value. If this trend continues, Nigeria is heading for complete failure,” he warned.

Despite the dire situation, the Bishop expressed hope that Nigeria could still be saved. He called on citizens, particularly the youth, to resist being tools in the hands of corrupt politicians and to instead rise with purpose and determination to reclaim the nation through democratic means.

“There are not up to 10,000 people holding Nigeria hostage. Over 200 million Nigerians can change the narrative if they rise through the ballot,” he said. “Running to other countries is not the answer. You may be a Green Card holder, but you are still a glorified slave. Let us act now.”

The Synod ended with a call for national reflection, urging leaders to prioritize governance over politics and citizens to demand accountability and justice.