Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Church of Nigeria, Global Anglican Communion, has issued a strong appeal to politicians, political parties and their candidates, urging them to allow Nigerians to vote according to their convictions rather than through inducements ahead of the 2027 general elections. The call was made by the Bishop of Akoko-Edo Diocese and President of Synod, Rt. Rev. Ebenezer Saiki, during the 2026 Second Session of the Sixth Synod held at St. Peter's Church, Ikakumo, Edo State, on Sunday, July 19, 2026.
Speaking on the nation's political climate, Saiki noted that while national discourse is increasingly focused on the approaching presidential election, Nigerians must conduct themselves responsibly and with integrity. “We appeal for decency, fairness, and respect for democratic values. Elections should never become occasions for abandoning the principles we claim to uphold,” he said. The Bishop further declared that “Nigeria will make greater progress when citizens vote according to conviction rather than inducement,” urging the political class to allow citizens to vote according to their conscience.
Beyond the electoral appeal, the Bishop raised serious concerns about the growing spate of kidnapping and insecurity in Akoko-Edo, calling on residents and security agencies to work together to confront the menace. “Akoko-Edo must not surrender to fear. Every community has a role to play in protecting its people and territory. While these idiots often possess sophisticated weapons, our communities are not helpless. Working together, with courage, vigilance, and lawful cooperation with security agencies, we can strengthen our collective resistance against those who seek to terrorise our land,” Saiki said.
On infrastructure development, the Bishop commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for the ongoing palliative rehabilitation of the Auchi-Igarra-Ibillo Road but appealed to the state government to undertake permanent road construction and other developmental projects in the area similar to those being executed in other parts of the state. “We appreciate the palliative work presently being carried out on the Auchi-Ibillo Road, which has brought measurable improvement. At the same time, we respectfully urge the Government to pursue long-term and lasting solutions that will stand the test of time,” he said. He lamented that while massive road projects were going on elsewhere, his area was only receiving palliative work, stating, “Others should not eat the food, and you rub the oil in our mouth”.
At the end of the Synod, a communiqué jointly signed by the Clerical Synod Secretary, Ven. S.A. Adegbite, the Bishop, Rt. Rev. E.O. Saiki, and the Chancellor, Dame Dupe Ojo, stressed the importance of preparing young people in the area for future leadership responsibilities. The communiqué stated that there is an urgent need to equip the youth with the right values and skills for leadership, adding, “To fulfill their potential, they must be intentionally prepared for leadership and service”.
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