The Catholic Bishop of Ogoja Diocese, Most Rev’d Donatus Akpan, has urged politicians to prioritise the wellbeing of their constituents above their personal interests.
Speaking in his homily from the book of John 20:1-9, at the Thanksgiving Mass of Sen. Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, the Bishop also emphasised the importance of acquiring daily bread legitimately and not through fraudulent means.
The Thanksgiving Mass which took placed at St. Bennedict’s Cathedral in Igoli-Ogoja, Cross River, Akpan called on Nigerians, particularly politicians, to uphold truth and honesty in their endeavors.
Addressing the congregation, Akpan highlighted the significance of integrity in public service.
He urged politicians to stay true to their calling, reminding them that only those who shunned the truth would avoid associating with individuals of integrity.
The Bishop emphasized that when Nigerians align themselves with the truth, progress is inevitable.
Akpan also cautioned politicians against the temptation to engage in fraudulent activities or deceive the public they serve.
He advised against harboring thoughts of intimidation or defrauding others
“The office you hold should not be a medium for personal gain or abuse of power but a means to better then lives of your people.
“When people enmass wealth and overlook the plight of the people around them, they are not Godly and not worthy to be called human.
“Politicians must remain focused on their responsibilities, celebrating their achievements would be meaningless if they failed to fulfill their duty to serve the public selflessly.
“Politicians must not disappoint God by disregarding the needs of their people,” he stated.
The Bishop celebrated the Cross River North Senator’s character, describing him as a real “human being.”
The Bishop hailed Jarigbe’s authenticity, urging him to remain concerned about the welfare of his people.
In his address, Jarigbe said he will continue to attract developmental projects to the senatorial district and also make laws that will better the lives of his people.
“What i have so far done for my people is a little compared to what is coming,” he said.
Present at the Thanksgiving Mass includes: Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo and the Senator representing Rivers South East senatorial district and chairman, Senate committee on Works, Sen. Mpigi Barinada and member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal constituency, Chief Peter Akpanke.
Others are Offiono Francis, representative of Ogoja/Yala federal constituency, Cross River, the state’s PDP Chairman, Venatius Ikem, former Cross River Deputy Governor, Efiok Cobham among others.
