Rep Asks The Church To Raise God-fearing Men For Politics, Nation-Building
The member representing Okigwe South Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Nutrition, Rt Hon Dr. Chike John Okafor has urged the Church of Jesus Christ to prepare men and women of faith to participate in politics and national development.
Dr. Okafor emphasized that the Church cannot remain detached from political leadership and still expect improvements in governance, free from corruption and poor leadership.
He made this appeal on Saturday, November 1, 2025, during his presentation as a Guest Speaker at the 11th Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Isi Mbano, held at St. Michael’s and All Angels’ Church, Eziama, Osuama Archdeaconry, Isiala Mbano LGA, Imo State.
In his discourse titled “Governance, Politics and Faith: An Amalgam,” the distinguished scholar and federal lawmaker contended that faith and politics are intertwined.
He asserted that success in politics and governance is unattainable without faith and divine guidance.
Dr. Okafor referenced biblical examples where state leadership was effectively managed by individuals of faith, achieving great success due to their relationship with God.
He highlighted figures such as Esther, Daniel, Joseph (son of Jacob), and Joseph of Arimathea to illustrate how exemplary political leadership can emerge from the Church.
He urged Church leaders, including Anglican Bishops, Administrators, Knights, and lay members, to take political engagement seriously and encourage their followers to participate in partisan politics.
Dr. Okafor questioned how the Church can remain indifferent to politics and still lament poor leadership and corruption, likening it to expecting a single candle to illuminate a dark hall, which he dismissed as implausible.
He argued that since governance is a conduit for development, the Church must rise to the occasion and nurture God-fearing individuals who can engage in politics and facilitate the necessary reforms for good governance.
Earlier, Rt Rev Dr. Godson Ukanwa, the Anglican Bishop of Isi Mbano Diocese, emphasized faith as the cornerstone of Christianity, highlighting the importance of trust and complete submission to God, even in unseen or unfelt matters.
He urged the faithful to remain steadfast in their devotion to God.
Bishop Ukanwa praised the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, for his effective leadership and contributions to the state’s infrastructure and social amenities, while also advocating for more job opportunities for the youths within the state and nationwide.
The Synod was a resounding success, with a significant attendance of Anglican Bishops from within the state and across the country.
Bishop Ukanwa expressed gratitude to Deacon Chike Okafor for his thought-provoking address and assured that the Church would heed his call to action.
He commended Deacon Okafor for his ongoing support and generosity toward the Church and pledged the Church’s continued prayers and backing for him.
Additionally, Prof. Osy Nwaebo, former Vice Chancellor of Imo State University and Acting Chancellor of the Diocese, expressed his admiration for Deacon Chike Okafor’s insightful and scholarly presentation.
He lauded him as a distinguished scholar and a commendable representative of Imo State University, Owerri.
