By Adeboye Ado
The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Owo, Rt. Revd. Dr. Stephen Ayodeji Fagbemi, has condemned the early politicking ahead of the 2027 elections, urging political leaders to focus on governance and the well-being of the people rather than engaging in premature political intrigues.
He also expressed deep concern over the worsening economic hardship, rising poverty level, and the recent hike in telecommunications
The Lord Bishop however commended the Ondo State Government under the leadership of Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa for its commendable strides in governance, education, infrastructure, and renewed commitment to security in the Sunshine State.
Fagbemi made the remarks while delivering his charge during the first session of the fifteenth synod of the Diocese.
The synod, themed “Striving Forward to Spiritual Maturity,” brought together bishops from across the Anglican Communion, clergy, political office holders, and notable dignitaries, including a representative of the Governor of Ondo State.
At the synod, held at St. John’s Anglican Church, Iyere, Owo Fagbemi lamented the state of insecurity in Nigeria, describing the incessant killings by bandits, herdsmen, and kidnappers across various regions as a national tragedy.
He cited recent incidents in Ondo State, particularly in Akure North, Owo, and Ose Local Government areas, where residents now live in fear due to cult-related violence and kidnappings.
The Bishop, while commending President Tinubu for stabilizing the economy, decried the government’s insensitivity in increasing telecommunications tariffs at a time of rising poverty.
“Unfortunately, while our government seems to have stabilised the economy, the increase in telecommunications tariffs—at a time when prices have skyrocketed and poverty has worsened—can only be seen as insensitive and a signal of disconnect with the people.
It is very disturbing that while our government needs to settle and address the myriad of problems facing our country, some politicians are already talking about 2027. We urge elected politicians to serve the electorate faithfully by concentrating on governance and service to the people, and to delay political intrigues and campaigns until the final year of their term,” he said.
He commended the recent arrest of suspects involved in the murder of the APC chairman in Ifon and called on the government to ensure justice is served swiftly and decisively.
On education, Bishop Fagbemi called for more stable and consistent policies. He criticised the growing trend of underage children gaining university admission, stating that emotional maturity should not be sacrificed for academic acceleration.
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He recommended adopting education models from countries like the United Kingdom to strengthen Nigeria’s education system.
Speaking on state matters, Bishop Fagbemi congratulated Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami on their assumption of office and urged them to govern with vision and urgency.
He praised the employment of 1,100 teachers and the payment of WAEC fees for over 23,000 public school students, but advocated for the gesture to be extended to indigenes in private schools. He also urged the return of mission schools to their original owners, citing the successful model in Anambra State.
The Bishop welcomed the government’s review of kidnapping laws and commended ongoing infrastructure projects, such as the dual carriageway from Supare Junction to Ikare. He appealed for its extension to Owo and the completion of all abandoned road projects across the state.