Odedeji seeks government understanding on self-determination calls

The Diocesan Bishop of Lagos West, Anglican Communion, Rt. Reverend Dr. James Odedeji, has urged the Federal Government to allow those calling for self-determination to leave peacefully, saying that priority must not be given to any region of the country. 

The cleric added that for the sake of equity and justice, all regions must be given the opportunity to aspire to the highest position of President.

Odedeji, who stated this at the second session of the 8th Synod of the Diocese, held at the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral, Ikeja Lagos, said given the fact that the current constitution has been criticised by various sections of the country as being lopsided in its provisions, the government and lawmakers should heed the voice of reason to address the clause that seems suspicious of creating master/servant relationship among the different regions.

He said, “ Our government at the centre must be cautioned to check the nation’s level of borrowing, particularly from some powerful nations such as China, of which its modus operandi is to give a condition that tends towards recolonisation.

“Our economic experts have challenged the motive of the said nations to include ceding our sovereignty as a nation to such powerful countries if we are unable to pay back. This is purely an attempt at recolonisation. Our leaders must be careful, not to put the future of our country in jeopardy.”

Speaking on the epileptic power supply in the country, Bishop Odedeji urged the government to take with all seriousness the issue of power supply if the economy will grow.

“Other sources of power, aside from hydroelectricity generation must be explored. Our leaders must reach out to countries that are currently enjoying uninterrupted power supply, such as South Africa and even Ghana to be of help. It is not about the size as a nation, but about doing it right.”

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Religious Affairs, Rev’d Bukola Adeleke, said the diocese has been of great spiritual help to the state.

On the synod theme, he said: “The significance of the theme is to encourage us to put our trust in God… He is ready to renew our lives and turn our stagnant position around.”

While enjoining all to draw from the theme, he prayed that Lagosians would continue to experience a positive turnaround and that the nation should experience enduring greatness.

The Rt Rev’d Yusuf Janfala of the Diocese of Koi in the North thanked the diocese for always supporting northern Anglican churches, noting that the Diocese’s effort is impacting many Christians in the north.