By: Ify Obi.
The Anglican Bishop of Amichi Diocese, Rt Rev Ephraim Ikeakor has identified bad leadership as the greatest problem plaguing the Nation.Bishop Ikeakor regretted that the Nation’s rulers masquerading as leaders have continued unabated to ruin it and her citizens.
The Cleric emphasized this during his presidential address for the first session of the sixth synod of the Diocese held at Immanuel Anglican church Ekwulummili in Nnewi south LGA of Anambra State.,Where he decried the prevailing situation where political leaders feed fat the woes ,pains and humiliations of the ordinary citizens who are bleeding helplessly.Bishop IKEAKOR lamented the non existence of functional refineries in the country and removal of petrol subsidy without institutionally cushioning plans . This he said has thrown the citizens into hardship and agony.He faulted the planned census and new projects like the Lagos Calabar coastal highway while calling for channeling of the funds towards alleviating poverty , fixing dilapidated roads, provision of quality healthcare and education, among others and also
commended the governor of Anambra State,Prof Charles Soludo for embarking on massive road construction across the state including Ekwulobia flyover project which he said it’s a welcome development.And therefore called on the governor to take urgent steps in tackling insecurity in the state as well as scrutinizing operations of government revenue collectors.He drew the governors attention to exclusion of mission schools in the state government interventions in the education sector.
Taking his scripture reading from the book of Exodus chapter 32 while speaking on the theme of the synod:IDOLATRY: CAUSES,CONSEQUENCES AND CURE, Bishop Ikeakor noted that Idolatry,Apostasy and Syncretism have reached disturbing dimensions in the society and church in particular.stressing that , the history of biblical Israel was repleted with their constant falling prey to the sin of Idolatry which attracted severe divine punishments as it violates both the first and second commandments God gave them.He said that Idolatry,among other things,were caused by faith without convictions,spiritual ignorance, impatience and rebellion.
Enumerating the consequences of Idolatry to include rejection by God,transgenerational curses , stagnations, sexual perversions, mysterious deaths among others,He concluded by calling for genuine repentance and obedience to Gods words. Also fir christians to desist from idolatrous practices.Didnitaries that graced the occasion includes the Arch Bishop of the Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev Alexander Ibezim who called on christians to win souls for Christ and eschew politics in the Church.He commended Bishop Ikeakor and his wife,Dame Nkem Ikeakor for the remarkable positive developments in the Diocese under their leadership while calling on the laity and clergy to support them.
In their various teachings,the synod resource persons which include Arch Bishop Edmund Akanya from Kebbi Diocese and Bishop Sam Chukwuka of Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Diocese were unanimous in their vehement condemnation of the sin of Idolatry in the body of Christ and society at large . Highlights of the synod was powerful renditions from the cathedral choir and cutting of cake , Bishop’s presidential address, launching for diocesan development projects and evangelism as well as thanksgiving service.
