By Emeka Odogwu
The Anglican Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Dr. Geoffrey Obijuru Ibeabuchi, last weekend charged Nigerian youths to reject ballot box snatching, political thuggery and other forms of manipulation as the country prepares for the 2027 General Elections.
Bishop Ibeabuchi gave the charge in his anniversary message to members of the Anglican Youth Fellowship, AYF, Umuahia Diocesan Council, at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Abia state as the fellowship marked its 2026 Sunday and Anniversary celebration.
He urged the youths to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs, and vote according to their conscience. He urged them to resist attempts by politicians or other individuals to intimidate or use them to undermine the democratic process.
The Umuahia Anglican Bishop further called on the youths to mobilise their peers to protect Nigeria’s Democracy, warning them against allowing themselves to be recruited as thugs or instruments for advancing the political interests of others at the expense of their future.
According to him, the approaching electoral season makes it imperative for young Nigerians to take responsibility for the direction of the country by participating responsibly in the democratic process.
Bishop Ibeabuchi also challenged the youths to remain steadfast in their Christian faith and shun cultism, internet fraud, drug abuse, violence, immorality, dishonesty and the get-rich-quick mentality.
He said the theme of this year’s anniversary, “If God is for us…” drawn from Romans 8:31, was a reminder that Christians who maintain an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ should not surrender to fear or destructive social pressures.
The Bishop observed that young people were increasingly confronted by uncertainties, temptations and pressures, noting that some had turned to cultism, ritual practices and other harmful activities in their search for security and material success.
He urged the AYF members to place their trust in God and demonstrate Christian character in their churches, schools, workplaces, homes and communities.
“When God is on your side, fear gives way to faith, weakness is turned into strength, and obstacles become opportunities for His glory,” he said.
Bishop Ibeabuchi further described the youths as a blessing and a source of hope to the Church, commending their dedication, zeal and active participation in the work of God.
He also appreciated the Diocesan AYF Chaplain, Ven. Emeka Okeke; Diocesan President, Sister Nancy Ononiwu; National AYF President, Bro. Kelechi Nzeako; executives and youth leaders at various levels for what he described as their sacrificial service and commitment to the growth of the fellowship.
The Bishop called on parents, guardians and the Church to intensify efforts to mentor young people and invest in their spiritual, moral and financial development.
He said such investment was necessary to equip youths to become responsible citizens and positive influences in society while advancing the values of the Christian faith.
Bishop Ibeabuchi prayed for strength, preservation, boldness and fulfillment of purpose for the AYF members, assuring them of God’s victory as they continued in their Christian journey.
