April 1, (THEWILL)- The Catholic Bishop of Ogoja, Most Revd. Donatus Edet Akpan, has urged Nigerians to acquire their daily bread legitimately, saying only ungodly people amass wealth at the expense of others.
He made this known in Ogoja during a thanksgiving service organised in honour of the Senator representing Cross River North in the National Assembly, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, over the weekend.
He also said the country is not going forward because people do not like the truth and called for Nigerians to embrace the truth so as to liberate the country from its present bondage.
“When people amass wealth and overlook the plight of people around them, they are ungodly. Our nation does not know what is the truth and that is why we are still in bondage. Truth is the path towards recovery and freedom in Nigeria.
“If you have an office that has some influence on people, make truth your speciality, even when a gang of liars stand together and they seem to be the winners, be the lone voice out there and do not give up,” Bishop Akpan said.
He also advised the congregation to make their daily bread legitimately and not through fraud because heaven would be closed against them.
On the thanksgiving service, Bishop Akpan thanked Senator Jarigbe for acknowledging the source of his blessings, describing him as his spiritual son.
He said God gave him the position to test him and charged him not to disappoint God and always prioritise the needs of his constituents.
“God wants you to be a witness among his people and He also gave you the office to test you and the stuff you are made of. Power intoxicates, so don’t allow it to intoxicate you and make you lose focus.
“Live a life of service to people and be concerned about your people because God made you victorious for their sake, don’t disappoint God,” he said.
On his part, Senator Jarigbe described his victory as a collective achievement and thanked his constituents for their unwavering support for him.
“Our victory in the recent general elections against formidable odds is not merely a personal triumph but a collective achievement of unwavering determination and unyielding support.
“As we gather here today to celebrate our triumph, let us not forget that our work has only just commenced. The challenges ahead are gargantuan but so also is our resolve to overcome them. Together, let us build a future that is brighter, more prosperous and inclusive for all,” he said.
He also acknowledged the Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, saying despite the intensity ofcompetition, the Governor has conducted himself with dignity and respect as he governs the state.
“Our democracy thrives on robust debate and healthy competition, and I am grateful for the opportunity to engage in such a spirited contest,” he said.
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THEWILL Correspondent, Aniekan Bassey has over six years experience that spans across several fields in print journalism including development communication, sexual reproductive and health rights issues, crime, climate change, social justice, business and human interest stories.
