Cleric urges Nigeria leaders to restore country’s image

The Bishop of Ika Diocese, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Godfrey Ekpenisi, at the weekend, tasked Nigeria leaders at all levels to exhibit transparency, honesty, and accountability to redeem the battered image of the country.

Right Reverend Ekpenisi made the remark in an exhortation at a praise/worship ceremony to mark the 65th coronation anniversary of Obi of Owa, Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor II.

The ceremony was held at the Royal Palace Owa Oyibu, Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State.

The Anglican Bishop, in the exhortation titled “Leadership Skills Required For The Generation We Are In,” posited that leadership should not only be visionary and technology-based but also all-embracing, sustainable, forward-looking, and focused on finding solutions to the multi-dimensional challenges facing mankind.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, extolled the leadership qualities of the celebrant and congratulated him on what he called “a great milestone to be on the throne for 65 years and still counting.”

Governor Oborevwori described Dr. Efeizomor II as a renowned statesman whose disposition to peace and harmonious existence had contributed tremendously to the development of the society.

The Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council and Orodje of Okpe, Major-General Felix Mujakpuero (retd) Orhue I, who chaired the occasion, remarked that the Obi of Owa had left indelible footprints in the sands of time, adding that his passion for education, youth, and socio-economic development of the society was unrivalled.

In a citation, Prof. Eric Eboh, who x-rayed the historical background of the monarch who ascended the throne as the 17th Obi of Owa Kingdom on September 6, 1959, said that his reign had brought unprecedented growth and development to Owa Kingdom.

He described him as an author, a prolific writer, consummate scholar, and leader.

Responding, the celebrant appreciated God for making it possible for him to celebrate 65 years on the throne of his forebears with sound health and mind. He explained that God gives power and that He alone can grant a man the grace to succeed in positions of leadership and commended various speakers for the kind words they said about him.

Traditional rulers from across the country, including the Olu of Warri, Ogiamen Atuwatse III, the King of Eleme, Rivers State, and the Amayanabor of Nembe Kingdom in Bayelsa State, Professor Edmund Dakuoru, attended the ceremony.