Anglican Archbishop Makes Strong Case for Collection of PVCs, Active Participation in 2023 Election

By Praise Chinecherem

Emeritus Archbishop and Dean, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Maxwell Anikwenwa has joined the call on eligible voters to collect their Permanent Voters Cards to enable them exercise their franchise in the forthcoming general elections.

The cleric made the call during the dedication of Our Saviour’s Church, Awka, Anambra State by the Archbishop, Ecclesiastical Province of the Niger, Most Rev. Alexander Ibezim. 

He said Nigerians’ duty remained casting their votes during elections, regardless of religious affiliations, describing as foolish those who complain about election results when they refused to vote.

He said, “Every Nigerian, irrespective of religious beliefs, should register and collect his/her PVCs in order to carry out his/her civic responsibility of voting during elections.

“It’s an important duty of every Nigerian citizen to vote during elections. Whoever that doesn’t contribute in this all important responsibility should not complain.

“Whether the outcome favours you or not, you’ve done your bit. You don’t need to worry. But if you don’t vote, you don’t need to complain; it’s as simple as that.”

Earlier in his sermon titled, “Never give up”, drawn from Matt. 15:21, Archbishop Ibezim urged the congregation not to allow life challenges to hinder them from worshipping and rendering services to God.

He also commended the parishioners for their contributions towards the growth and expansion of the church, urging them not to relent, especially towards the proposed vicarage. 

“Worshipping God brings miracles. Don’t allow life challenges stop you from serving God; and don’t complain whenever you’re asked to do something in the church because it’s a privilege to work for God,” he added.

On his part, Chairman, Dedication Committee, Chief Chukwuemeka Orjiakor appreciated God for being part of the epoch making event, urging the congregation to join hands to ensure the vicarage was completed at recorded time.

One of the dignatories at the occasion, Samuel Nwofor, was full of gratitude to God for rapid spiritual and numerical growth the church had recorded since inception.

Nwofor, Candidate of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Awka South 1, Anambra State House of Assembly, also expressed joy at improved turnout of voters at the PVC collection centres.

He urged those yet to collect theirs not to sit at home and complain about those in power, insisting their votes would definitely count only if they voted.