Bishop Warns Against Do-or-Die Politics Ahead of 2027 Elections

By Caroline Erowofiuna

The Bishop of the Diocese of Ogori-Magongo, the Right Reverend Festus Davies, has called on the political class to ensure that the 2027 general elections are not turned into a do-or-die affair.

Right Reverend Davies made the call in his charge to the third session of the fifth Synod of the diocese held at the Church of the Resurrection, Ogori-Magongo, in Ogori-Magongo Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The Synod is the annual council of the Anglican Church convened to deliberate on matters of doctrine, administration and evangelism.

The cleric urged politicians to seek power with integrity and the fear of God, noting that desperation for office fuels violence and undermines democracy.

He also charged the electorate to reject vote-buying and elect leaders of proven character.

Right Reverend Davies described the rising cases of banditry, kidnapping and other crimes as symptoms of moral decadence, adding that the trend could be curbed by reviving religious and moral instruction in homes and schools.

He called on the government and security agencies to take decisive steps to guarantee the security of lives and property of all citizens.

Speaking on the theme of the Synod, “Thirsting After God”, the Bishop said it was borne out of the need for a deeper and more intimate relationship with God at a time when many Christians are distracted by materialism and the quest for miracles.

He explained that just as physical thirst requires water to quench and prevent dehydration, spiritual thirst represents an instinctual yearning and holy longing for God’s embracing presence.

He therefore urged Christians to cultivate personal relationship with their Creator through constant study of the scriptures and prayers.