By Chesa Chesa
As Nigeria marks her 63rd Independence Anniversary, leaders and citizens have been enjoined to be deliberate and intentional in steering the nation off the “highway of corruption, impunity, greed and selfishness”.
The admonition was given by the Bishop of Okigwe South Diocese, Anglican Archbishop of Owerri Province, and National President, Christian Council of Nigeria, Most Rev David Onuoha.
In a statement he issued on Sunday to reflect the mood of the nation, Bishop Onuoha noted that while Nigeria has remained afloat despite all difficulties and trials associated with nation building, “seeking the wellbeing and good of all men is the best way to self preservation”.
According to the respected senior cleric: “While we congratulate all at this great attainment, we believe that we should take some time out to seek the face of God for forgiveness of sins committed, opportunities wasted, hopes betrayed, vision detailed, justice denied, innocent lives wasted, wealth squandered and the unbridled selfishness that define most of our intentions and actions today.
“We must always remember that righteousness exalts a nation while sin is a reproach to any people.
“Being deliberate and intentional in steering our nation off the highway of corruption, impunity, greed and selfishness, in which it is presently moving at a breath-taking speed is the only way to see the national rebirth we so much desire.
“Both the leaders and the led must realize the basic truth that we have no other nation to call our own.
“The virtues of truth, honesty, love, peace, Justice, equity and fairness remain the soul of any nation and when these are thrown away for whatever consideration, the nation dies.
“Let us resolve to make this project called Nigeria work and be resolute in pursuing all that is true, honest, just, pure, lovely and of good report. Seeking the wellbeing and good of all men is the best way to self preservation.
“May the King of Kings and Creator of heaven and earth bless, keep and preserve our dear nation and its citizens. God bless Nigeria.”
