Archbishop Kattey retires, cautions against vote buying

The Archbishop, Province of Niger Delta and Bishop, Diocese of Niger Delta North, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Ignatius Kattey, has retired and would be succeeded by Rt. Rev. Wisdom Ihunwo.

Kattey led the Diocese of Niger Delta North since 2000, when he was consecrated.He retires from active service, having attained retirement age of 70. His disengagement activities started in March this year, with visits to Deaneries and other dioceses, novelty football match, disengagement lectures and his birthday. held yesterday.Bishop Kattey served 32 years in the Anglican Communion as a Pastor, Bishop, Archbishop, as well as Dean and Chairman of Joint Council of Provinces East of Niger Delta.

The cleric said during his service, the Church witnessed phenomenal growth through the Grace of the Lord.He explained that the diocese has given birth to five other dioceses, grew from 12 to13 dioceses spreading across four states— Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River and Rivers.

While highlighting activities marking his disengagement from service, Bishop Kattey, who showed concern over the country’s political development, called on Nigerians to ensure that 2019 elections are conducted in a way that will be acceptable internationally. He also cautioned against vote buying.

Advising security agencies to be neutral during the elections, he said: “The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), should be seen to conduct the elections without bias. As 2019 general elections draw nearer, the political atmosphere in our nation and in the various states is thickening with hate and indifference. “And with the heated confrontations, alignment and realignment, power tussle and disharmony, already being experienced, the struggle for the political space and power is quite disturbing.

“We do not expect all of us to think alike. The world is large enough for all to have deferring ideologies, views and philosophies without destroying ourselves. We must learn to accommodate and tolelarate ourselves.”He thanked the world for the prayers, concern and love shown to him and his wife, when they were kidnapped in 2013.He expressed gratitude to the Primate of All Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most. Rev. Nicholas and his wife, Mrs. Nkasiobi Okoh for their support and encouragement.

He urged youths to serve God, desist from criminal activities and seek meaningful ventures, noting that he went through severe challenges and rejection before he got to his present position, as nothing good comes easy.