The Archbishop Province of the Niger and Anglican Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev Alexander Ibezim has charged members of the 8th Anambra State House of Assembly that their service is ultimately to God who granted them the position to serve as contained in Romans 13:1.
He noted that true democratic service entails ultimately service to God Almighty to whom the legislators must give account to at the end of their service.
Archbishop Ibezim stated this during a Special Thanksgiving Service to commemorate the first year in office of the 8th Anambra House of Assembly held at the Legislative Complex, Awka.
He challenged them to continue striving for excellence in legislative practice by passing impactful bills, addressing emerging issues with foresight, ensuring that their actions consistently reflect the will and welfare of Anambra people.
While focusing on godly leadership and followership as imparative for future development, Bishop Ibezim noted that democratic governance thrive on godly leadership grounded in compassion, justice and humility.
“Good laws alone does not enhance development, rather they must be supported by godly followership because responsible leadership brings responsible followership that paves way for just, transparent and equitable society.
“The 8th Legislative activities highlight your commitment to public needs. Thus, members of the assembly must recognise that true democratic service is for God bearing in mind that their work is great responsibility.
“So amidst today’s challenges in our nation, hunger, unemployment, corruption, unemployment, and all manner of evil vices we must trust in God for a brighter and better Anambra State.”
Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, represented by his deputy, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim applauded the cohesion existing among the three arms of government (the executive, legislature and judiciary) in the state.
While congratulating the legislature on her one year anniversary on June 12, 2024 Democracy Day, the Governor however requested more work from her for the overall growth and development of the state.
Responding, the Speaker Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Somtochukwu Udeze said under his leadership, the assembly recorded an 80% attendance rate across 59 plenary sessions from July 2023 to June 2024, emphasizing the lawmakers’ responsiveness to the needs of their constituencies.
He noted that the 8th Assembly passed 14 bills and over 60 people–oriented resolutions that have positive impact on the lives of Ndi Anambra.
The special thanksgiving service had in attendance are former lawmakers, government functionaries, traditional rulers, among others.###
