WRITTEN BY: CHIOMA MADONNA NDUKWU
In a recent incident at a church service in Port Harcourt, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), expressed discontent towards Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Oko-Jaja, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Niger Delta, for not acknowledging his presence as the FCT Minister during the Rivers State Judiciary’s rededication ceremony for the 2023–2024 legal year.
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Wike, accompanied by the state governor, was irked by the lack of recognition and warned non-politicians about the pitfalls of entering the political arena. He emphasized the distinction between his political role and the clergy’s duties, highlighting that during his tenure as Governor of Rivers State, he received praise from the Anglican community, which he now views as insincere. Wike firmly stated that as a politician, he doesn’t intervene in religious matters and expects the same courtesy in return. Expressing his offense, Wike cautioned clergy members against involving themselves in politics, cautioning that doing so would subject them to similar scrutiny and treatment faced by politicians. He defended his character and credentials, demanding an apology from the bishop for what he perceived as disrespectful behavior towards a member of his congregation holding a political office.
In contrast, the bishop, during his sermon titled “Fear Not,” urged judicial officers to fearlessly uphold truth in their duties, emphasizing the need to overcome the spirit of fear. Wike’s insistence on recognition and his cautionary words underscored the tension arising from the incident, highlighting the blurred lines between politics and religion in this context.
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