Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, has challenged clergymen to be nation builders by speaking the truth and preaching the word of God fearlessly.

The governor gave the challenge at the weekend in a keynote address titled ‘Clergy and Nation Building’ which he delivered at the consecration service for Bishop (Dr.) Fidelis Akem Ugbong at the Elohim Christian Centre International, Gwagwalada, Abuja.

According to him, “For us to succeed as a nation, we must have clergymen who tell those in government the truth.” He decried a situation where clergymen play the role of sycophants because of personal benefits.

While noting that most of the nations that have succeeded have clergymen who tell their leaders the truth, the governor reiterated: “For us to build our nation, the clergy must draw the attention of leaders and those in authority to where things are going wrong and also acknowledge when things go right.”

Besides, Uduaghan stressed the need for the presence of God to be felt in government administration, especially in Government Houses across the country, adding that the Finger of God has been at work in the affairs of Delta State.

“God is helping us to finish well and strong in Delta State,” he stated. “We should not leave the issue of praying for those in authority to the clergy alone, everyone should be involved to ensure that we build a strong and better country.”

“The clergy must encourage government to ensure that there is presence of God in Government Houses,” the governor further said, adding that Chaplains at Government Houses should not also see themselves as political appointees but should ensure that spiritual activities take place in Government Houses.

Uduaghan also advised that the clergy should not be agents of destruction but should always ensure religious tolerance in the country.

On her part, the presiding prelate of Church of God Mission Worldwide, Archbishop Margaret Benson Idahosa, described Governor Uduaghan as a man of integrity and assured him of the prayers of members of the church.

•Photo (From Right): Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State; Alex Iziyon (SAN) and Bishop Fidelis Ugbong, chief celebrant, during his consecration service at Elohim Christian Centre, Gwagwalada, Abuja. Photo: Bripin Enarusai.

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