Anglican Bishop to Leaders: Make Citizens’ Welfare Yardstick of Governance

The Anglican Bishop of Oleh Diocese, Delta State, Rt. Rev. John Aruakpor, has called on political leaders and governments across Nigeria to adopt the welfare of citizens as the primary measure of good governance. Speaking at the Third Session of the Ninth Synod of the Diocese, held at St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Enhwe, Aruakpor stressed the importance of active Christian participation in politics.

"Failure on our part to actively participate in the process could become a pitfall on our part as Christians," he warned, emphasizing that the nation's future depends on the integrity and responsibility of all citizens, not just those seeking office. He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the judiciary to conduct elections with impartiality and transparency to ensure the people's will prevails.

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Failure on our part to actively participate in the process could become a pitfall on our part as Christians.

Bishop Aruakpor voiced support for the establishment of state police to enhance security and bring policing closer to the grassroots. However, he stressed the need for constitutional safeguards to prevent potential political abuse, ethnic bias, and human rights violations. He also lamented the persistent issue of epileptic power supply in Nigeria, noting that successive administrations have failed to fulfill promises, leading to severe economic hardship and discouraging investment.

Expressing frustration over the unreliability of power, Aruakpor proposed that government offices should not use generators or solar power but rely on the general supply. "This move may force the leadership to be serious with the issue of power supply and ensure that the trillions of naira that have been sunk into the matter become beneficial," he stated. He questioned the plan to commit additional funds to stabilizing electricity, suggesting funds be allocated to state governments wishing to generate their own power, especially with discussions of regionalization.

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This move may force the leadership to be serious with the issue of power supply and ensure that the trillions of naira that have been sunk into the matter become beneficial.