The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), The Most Rev. Henry C. Ndukuba, has called for peace and harmony in Ekiti State, warning that materialism and self-interest are threatening the nations moral values.
He made this statement on Monday during a courtesy visit to the palace of the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe, ahead of the Standing Committee of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion holding at the Cathedral Church of Emmanuel in the state capital.
Archbishop Ndukuba, who lamented that society has come to measure people by wealth and status rather than integrity and service, stressed that such values are being replaced by greed and selfish leadership.
He noted that many individuals who are given opportunities to lead in different spheres of society often prioritize personal gains over the welfare of the people, urging Nigerians to reconsider their understanding of leadership by returning to God with a sincere heart.
The Primate sought for the continued support of the Royal Father and promised that the Church will continue to pray and partner with the throne in ensuring that there is continued peace and harmony in Ekiti.
“We can see that people are so materialistic now; everything is monetized. People are measured by the amount of wealth they control, the higher position they occupy. And even when people are given opportunities to lead in different spheres, many have used such opportunities to seek their own well-being rather than the well-being of the people,” the Primate said.
“Therefore, I think that something is wrong somewhere. Our values are being changed not for good, but rather for the worse.
“At such a time as this, we are asking that people need to reconsider their understanding of leadership and their understanding of helping the people. That cannot be in the right perspective except if you turn to God with your heart.”
In his remarks, the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Adejugbe, praised the impact of the Church in the society, saying the visit of the entire Church of Nigeria leadership to Ekiti is an indication that the state is divinely endorsed by God.
The Monarch, who reiterated his commitment to supporting the church, urged them to continue to pray for the state, so that the residents can thrive and feel the impact of the government.
He thanked the Primate and his delegation for the opportunity given to Ekiti to host this great gathering of the Church at a time like this, noting that such a visit is indeed a blessing to the state.
