The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Lagos West, the Rt. Rev. Olusola Odedeji, has expressed gratitude to God for the safe return of the kidnapped NYSC members, while urging Nigerians to stop politicising their release.
He, however, called on the government to intensify its efforts in securing the lives of Nigerians.
Bishop Odedeji spoke shortly after the commissioning of the 69-year old St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Ofin Ikorodu, on Friday, October 9.
Released NYSC members
On the released NYSC members, the Anglican Bishop said, “The life of every Nigerian matters. It’s sad that we are still not making headway when it comes to the security of lives. There is fear everywhere, and Nigerians are not happy that they cannot move freely in their country.
”But then, we still have cause to thank God for the release of the corps members. We have had cases in the past where ransoms were collected, yet the kidnappers still went ahead to kill their victims. We are praying that God will touch the hearts of these wicked people and cause them to repent.”
Welfare of Nigerians
The Anglican bishop also used the opportunity to call on the government to attend to the welfare of Nigerians. “People are hungry. The purchasing power of the average Nigerian is weak. We want the government to be more responsive to the plight of the people. We cannot continue like this as a nation.
”As church leaders, we see people on a daily basis who are in pain and financial distress. The average Nigerian simply wants an environment that enhances their livelihood. They are not asking for too much.”
Work of faith
At the dedication service, Odedeji urged believers not to lose focus on the work of faith that has been committed into their hands. “We have been saved to save others. We should not lose focus. Our goal and desire should be to do the will of the Master. God has called us to go into the world and preach the Good News.”
He charged the vicar in charge of the parish, Rev. Olumuyiwa Ogunsanya, and his wife, Olusola Ogunsanya, to be steadfast and remain committed to the doctrine of Christ. “The dedication of this parish is a call to be more committed to the task of evangelism. This is a time to renew your dedication and trust God for more of His grace to do His bidding.”
The dedication service attracted clergy, church officers, and laity from across the diocese.
The vicar of the Church Rev Canon Olumuyiwa Ogunsanya and his wife Olusola receiving Deed of Dedication certificate from the Bishop Rt Revd Dr James Olusola on Friday October 9
Preferment
Highpoint of the event was the preferment of the Vicar the Revd Olumuyiwa Ogunsanya as a Canon in the Church of Nigeria.
His preferment elected joy among parishioners and well wishers. They expressed gratitude to God for the well deserved promotion