Methodist Church tasks INEC, leaders on electoral integrity, credible polls
The Diocese of Lagos, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), has called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts in addressing insecurity in the country.

The call formed part of resolutions reached at the second session of the 36th Synod of the Diocese, presided over by the Diocesan Bishop, Rt. Rev. Ifedola Gabriel Okupevi, held at Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.

The four-day synod, themed, “The Doctrine of Salvation (Soteriology) and the Doctrine of End Time (Eschatology), Their Relevance and Our Responses to Them Today,” expressed grave concern over the worsening state of insecurity in the country, including rampant kidnapping, terrorism, banditry, herder-farmer clashes and attacks on communities across the nation.

The church, therefore, urged both the federal and state governments to strengthen the capacity, integrity and coordination of security agencies, while also addressing the root causes of violence and unrest in the country.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, while speaking at the gathering, described the Diocese of Lagos as one of the strongest instruments of nation-building in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos State, while also commending the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, for his exemplary leadership.

The church, which lamented the continued failure of the power sector to provide stable and affordable electricity, also expressed concern over rising poverty and unemployment, especially among youths.

HOWEVER, the Methodist Church Nigeria in Ebonyi State has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and political leaders in Nigeria to ensure the conduct of free, fair and credible elections in 2027.

The church warned against electoral malpractices, rigging and manipulation, stressing that the nation’s democracy can only thrive through transparent and credible electoral processes.

It made the call during the 32nd synod of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Abakaliki, , held at Wesley Urban Methodist Church, Onwe Road, Abakaliki.

In an 11-point communiqué jointly signed by the Archbishop of Ebonyi and Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese, Chikwendu Ogan Igwe, and the Lay President of the Synod, Sunday Onwe, the church urged Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), participate actively in the electoral process and vote for credible leaders capable of transforming the country.

The church also commended the governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, for implementing the People’s Charter of Needs agenda and delivering democratic dividends to residents of the state.

It equally charged ministers of the gospel to remain committed to the preaching of the good news and avoid acts capable of tarnishing the image of the church.