Presbyterian Church Prelate, Ekpenyong Akpanika Salutes Nigerians At Independence

The Prelate of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria and the Moderator of the General Assembly, His Eminence Ekpenyong Nyong Akpanika has congratulated Nigeria at the occasion of its 62nd Independence anniversary.

The cleric who is sending a goodwill message at Independence for the first time since he assumed office weeks back applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for the efforts he is putting in place to provide governance and improve the social infrastructure of the country, fight insurgence, and banditry and improve the economy.

“It is our ardent prayer that these efforts will begin to yield the desired results in the nearest future” the clergy prayed in a goodwill message signed by the Director of Information and Public Affairs of the Church, Rt. Rev. Nnoke Ibe and made available to ABN TV.

While acknowledging that it must have been hectic for the President to steer the ship of the leadership of a nation whose challenges seem intractable and insurmountable, the cleric said the grace of God has been upon the President as he has exhibited uncommon strength of purpose and determination to make a positive impact as the leader of a country like Nigeria with diverse problems and expectations.

The Presbyterian Church of Nigeria while urging its members to participate actively in politics and also by showing a good example in conducting free and fair elections, he called on politicians to campaign and solicit for votes under an atmosphere free of rancor, violence, and inducement as preparations for the 2023 general elections begin.

He also called on INEC to ensure a level playing ground for all parties and candidates while the electorate themselves must not allow themselves to be used as agents of disruption.

He added, “As the present government prepares to leave office, I want to remind our leaders that there are issues that need to be settled before the date of handing over to the next government.

“We expect that the issues that led to the long ASUU strike must be resolved once and for all. Also, the activities of terrorists in the cloak of bandits and kidnappers who seem to be operating without any check must be brought under control.

“At the state levels, I encourage all governors to ensure that all outstanding salaries and pensions be paid and that no project started by them is left uncompleted.”