Amidst rising economic turbulence and increasing national crisis, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Lagos West, The Rt. Revd. (Dr.) James Odedeji, has made an appeal for accountable leadership.
Speaking during the 2nd Session of the 9th Synod at the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral in GRA, Ikeja, Lagos, on Friday, the Bishop called on public office holders and citizens alike to reject complacency and become agents of moral clarity and change.
In his sermon, Bishop Odedeji expressed grave concern over Nigeria’s current socio-economic trajectory, painting a picture of a nation at a critical juncture, either heading towards systemic failure or already experiencing significant decline. He cited the rising cost of living, the rapid depreciation of the naira, and widespread public disillusionment as clear indicators of the country’s deteriorating condition.
Framing his message around the Synod’s theme, “Be a Beacon of Light”, the Bishop emphasized that the present moment calls not for silence or neutrality but for courageous moral leadership. “We are called not to blend in, but to shine out,” he declared. “God’s word urges us to be lights in a world overshadowed by greed, dishonesty, and despair.”
He challenged Christians to stand firm in their values and resist the rising tide of corruption, injustice, and moral compromise. In his words, “This Synod is not merely a gathering. It is a divine summons to reject conformity and embrace transformation in our society.”
Bishop Odedeji also issued a rebuke to those in government, urging immediate and decisive action to address the suffering of ordinary Nigerians. “People are tired of empty promises. What we need is responsible leadership, not a litany of excuses,” he insisted.
He warned of the growing disconnect between political leaders and the citizens they serve, lamenting the lack of unity and collaboration across various tiers of government. “We are witnessing the deterioration of intergovernmental relationships and the rise of self-interest over the public good,” he said.
The Bishop did not shy away from addressing the moral challenges facing the youth, decrying the rise of online scams, ritual crimes, and a growing culture of moral ambiguity. “Society cannot afford to turn a blind eye to these trends,” he warned. “The future is being shaped today, and if we continue to ignore these signs, we do so at our peril.”
