A Catholic priest of the Archdiocese of Onitsha, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. George Adimike, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain its neutrality as an electoral umpire in the 2027 general elections rather than becoming a participant in the political process.
Fr. Adimike, an indigene of Awka-Etiti in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, gave the advice at Cihcotel Classique Hotel, Awka, during the maiden public lecture and induction ceremony organised by the Igwebuike Alaigbo Development Association (IADA).
Speaking while responding to questions from journalists, the Catholic priest stressed the need for INEC to remain objective, impartial and committed to conducting credible elections, amid growing concerns and speculations about the commission’s role in the forthcoming polls.
He warned that the consequences of destroying the country’s democratic and social foundations today could negatively affect future generations.
According to him, “The society we are destroying today will take a revenge on our children and children’s children.”
The priest also called on Ndigbo to actively participate in efforts to rescue Nigeria from its current challenges, expressing concern that the country was gradually heading towards a self-destructive path.
He maintained that the Igbo people possess the human resources, competence and capacity needed to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s recovery, particularly in addressing its economic difficulties.
Fr. Adimike who is also the Communication Director of Onitsha Archdiocese, further urged Igbos to appreciate and support their own, while condemning suggestions that the Igbo are not qualified or competent to lead Nigeria.
He described such remarks as unfortunate, arguing that Nigeria should not sideline some of its most capable citizens when seeking solutions to its numerous challenges.
The priest likened the situation to a football team, insisting that when faced with enormous challenges, a team should rely on its best players rather than its second or third options.
He maintained that the Igbo belong in the first eleven and should be given the opportunity to contribute their full potential to national development.
Reaffirming his commitment to a united, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria, Fr. Adimike encouraged eligible Igbo voters to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and turn out at their respective polling units during the 2027 presidential election.
He specifically urged voters to support the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi, whom he described as the best candidate for the country’s leadership.
He also appealed to those without PVCs to support the electoral participation process by encouraging eligible voters to come out and exercise their franchise.
The cleric stressed that active citizen participation, credible elections and responsible leadership remain essential to building a united and prosperous Nigeria.
By Sunny A. David, Awka
A Catholic priest of the Archdiocese of Onitsha, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. George Adimike, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain its neutrality as an electoral umpire in the 2027 general elections rather than becoming a participant in the political process.
Fr. Adimike, an indigene of Awka-Etiti in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, gave the advice at Cihcotel Classique Hotel, Awka, during the maiden public lecture and induction ceremony organised by the Igwebuike Alaigbo Development Association (IADA).
Speaking while responding to questions from journalists, the Catholic priest stressed the need for INEC to remain objective, impartial and committed to conducting credible elections, amid growing concerns and speculations about the commission’s role in the forthcoming polls.
He warned that the consequences of destroying the country’s democratic and social foundations today could negatively affect future generations.
According to him, “The society we are destroying today will take a revenge on our children and children’s children.”
The priest also called on Ndigbo to actively participate in efforts to rescue Nigeria from its current challenges, expressing concern that the country was gradually heading towards a self-destructive path.
He maintained that the Igbo people possess the human resources, competence and capacity needed to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s recovery, particularly in addressing its economic difficulties.
Fr. Adimike who is also the Communication Director of Onitsha Archdiocese, further urged Igbos to appreciate and support their own, while condemning suggestions that the Igbo are not qualified or competent to lead Nigeria.
He described such remarks as unfortunate, arguing that Nigeria should not sideline some of its most capable citizens when seeking solutions to its numerous challenges.
The priest likened the situation to a football team, insisting that when faced with enormous challenges, a team should rely on its best players rather than its second or third options.
He maintained that the Igbo belong in the first eleven and should be given the opportunity to contribute their full potential to national development.
Reaffirming his commitment to a united, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria, Fr. Adimike encouraged eligible Igbo voters to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and turn out at their respective polling units during the 2027 presidential election.
He specifically urged voters to support the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi, whom he described as the best candidate for the country’s leadership.
He also appealed to those without PVCs to support the electoral participation process by encouraging eligible voters to come out and exercise their franchise.
The cleric stressed that active citizen participation, credible elections and responsible leadership remain essential to building a united and prosperous Nigeria.
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