Cleric Charges Politicians On Peaceful Election

Politicians in Nigeria have been called upon to respect the rule of law and play politics with a sense of responsibility to enable Nigeria have a free and fair general elections this year.

The Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Calistus   Onaga, made the call in his service to mark the first Sunday of the year at the Holy Family Catholic Church, Okpatu in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu state.

He used the occasion to condemn the present high rate of crime, including corruption and kidnapping in the country, saying that they negate the spirit of love and trust in the Almighty God .

Bishop Onaga noted during the service, which started with thanksgiving songs to God, that Christ died on the cross in order to save mankind, pointing out that in addition, Christ lived a life of love and sacrifice.

He, therefore, urged Christians to emulate Christ by not only living in harmony and unity among themselves, but always giving gifts and helping one another to demonstrate their love for their fellow human beings, noting that “Christ gave everything He had including His life to mankind.”

Elections, he noted , should not be seen by politicians as a do or die exercise , reasoning that everybody cannot be President or Governor at the same time.

He advised politicians in the  country, especially those contesting for political offices to respect the verdict of the Nigerian electorate, who are expected to vote into office candidates of their choice.

While stressing the importance of a free and fair election by letting every vote count, Bishop Onaga reminded politicians that Nigeria is bigger and more important than any individual, no matter how highly placed in society.

He urged  them to eschew violence in any form, saying that the importance of peace and stability in Nigeria at this point in time cannot be over emphasised.

Also speaking on the occasion, the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Evans Offor, charged politicians in the country to be tolerant and honest and avoid violence during and after this year’s general elections.

According to him, “The rule of equity and justice are some of the major principles we are lacking in Nigeria. If we can enthrone equity, justice and fairness as cardinal principles, and hearken to these principles, everything will be okay for us in Nigeria.

The service, which was attended by many important personalities, also featured intercessory prayers for the people and the nation for a successful general elections , come April this year.