The Parish Priest of St Joseph Catholic Church, Refinery Road, Ekpan, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, Rev. Fr. Sylvanus Oyemike has decried nepotism in the country, saying it was killing the nation and called on elected leaders to shun it for the better of the nation and the people.
In his Homily on Sunday, May 7th, 2023, the clergyman said that those recently elected in the just concluded 2023 general elections must carry everybody along, whether they voted for them or voted against them.
According to him, the nation has witnessed nepotism of the highest order in the last few years, saying that nepotism must not be encouraged.
Speaking further in his Homily at his Parish where Aides to the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and Governor-elect, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, did Thanksgiving for his landslide victory at the March 18th Governorship election in the State, Rev. Fr Sylvanus Oyemike said that; “We thank God that the 2023 general elections have come and gone and those political leaders who emerged victoriously should know that those who voted against them are not their enemies. They should not be tagged as enemies”.
He implored politicians across the country not to make life difficult for the people, adding that; “You have been voted for to rule all over the people. Nepotism has taken over the affairs of our country. Let us love one other . We must begin to look at things holistically . We must do away with nepotism, you do not have to think about favouring your people alone. Your responsibility is to the people, and those recently elected should know that the people are all looking up to them to bring the common good to all and sundry”.
He said that; “Our elected leaders must not allow nepotism to destroy their government because nepotism brings hatred. It is not just a show that your party has won, you are called to serve and not to be served. We should not allow nepotism and class to destroy our dear country. Even those who did not support you, work for their welfare. Jesus Christ is sending you out as Shepherd and go out there and search for the lost sheeps. Let everyone has a sense of belonging. Our politicians should not allow greed to blind fold them. A lot of people need to feel the impact of governance. It is not a right, but privilege God has given to you as elected leaders to make positive impact in the lives of our people”.
He enjoined elected leaders to create the conducive environment for all Nigerians to do business with easy by tackling insecurity confronting the country.
“Lives of the commoners are also very important. Do not let your heart be troubled. We must put our trust in God. We must begin to look at the essence of leadership. We must begin to take the welfare of the people seriously. The policies of our elected leaders must be directed to the people in order for them to be remembered by the time their tenures are over. Politicians should make life more meaningful to the people. Power comes from God and not man. If power comes to you, you must use it well for the benefit of the people”, the Catholic Priest said.
While commending the Aides of the the Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly and Governor-elect led, Rt Hon Oborevwori for deeming it necessary to appreciate God in a Special Thanksgiving for the Victory of their boss, the Clergyman prayed God to give him the Wisdom of King Solomon to pilot the affairs of the state as a Governor.
The Aides led by the Chief of Staff (COS) to the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Dr Ebenezer Okorodudu, flanked by the Political Adviser ( POLAD), Chief Emmanuel Edevor, the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Mr Dennis Otu and others later filed out in a Special Thanksgiving.
A reception was later held where guests were entertained with food, drinks and music.
