IT IS EVERYONE’S RESPONSIBILITY TO VOTE — CLERIC

Maxwell Anikwenwa, Emeritus Archbishop and Dean of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has urged all eligible voters to obtain Permanent Voter Cards in order to exercise their franchise in the upcoming general elections.

The cleric made the call during the dedication of Our Saviour’s Church in Awka, Anambra State, on Saturday.

The Church was dedicated by Most Rev. Alexander Ibezim, Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Niger.

Anikwenwa stated that regardless of religious affiliation, every Nigerian has the obligation to vote in elections.

He warned those who refused to vote not to complain if the outcome was not in their favor.

“Every Nigerian, regardless of religious beliefs, should register and collect his/her PVC in order to carry out his/her civic responsibility,” he stated. Every Nigerian citizen has an important responsibility to vote in elections. Those who do not contribute to this vital responsibility should not complain.

“Whether the outcome is favorable to you or not, you have contributed. You should not be concerned. But if you don’t vote, there’s no need to complain; it’s that simple.”
Earlier, in his sermon titled “Never give up,” based on Matthew 15:21, Archbishop Ibezim urged the congregation not to let life’s challenges prevent them from worshiping and serving God.

Ibezim also praised the parishioners for their contributions to the Church’s growth and expansion, urging them not to give up, particularly on the proposed vicarage.
“Worshipping God results in miracles. “Don’t let your life challenges keep you from worshiping Jesus; and don’t complain when you’re asked to do something in the Church because working for God is a privilege,” he added.

Chief Chukwuemeka Orjiakor, Chairman of the Dedication Committee, thanked God for being a part of the historic event and urged the congregation to work together to ensure the vicarage was completed on time.

One of the dignitaries present, Samuel Nwofor, candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance for Awka South 1, Anambra State House of Assembly, expressed delight at the increased voter turnout at the PVC collection centers.

He urged those who had yet to receive their ballots not to sit at home and complain about those in power, insisting that their votes would only count if they voted.