Church will keep speaking truth to power — Anglican Bishop of Enugu

…Says 19th Enugu Anglican Synod to Focus on Revival, National Issues

By Chinedu Adonu

ENUGU — Rt. Rev. Prof. Samuel Ike, Bishop of the Enugu Diocese, stated that the Church will continue to speak truth to power in Nigeria, affirming that this duty is part of its moral and spiritual mandate.

Bishop Ike emphasized that while the Church respects established authority, it cannot remain silent on matters that affect the wellbeing of citizens and the nation.

He made the remarks on Thursday during a pre‑synod press briefing ahead of the 19th Synod of the Diocese, scheduled to run from June 24 to June 28, 2026, at St. Peter’s Church, Coal Camp, Ogbete, one of the oldest Anglican churches in Enugu.

According to him, the Synod will address key national and spiritual concerns, including spiritual revival, governance, security, economic challenges and other pressing issues affecting Nigeria.

“We fear God only. We respect men and those in authority, but we will speak the truth about what is happening in our nation,” he said.

Bishop Ike added that discussions during the Synod would cover the state of the Nigerian nation, governance and the dividends of democracy, electricity supply, insecurity, the economy, education, the Eastern Rail project and preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The Synod, themed “Revival Levels: A Prepared Heart to Study, Do and Teach the Word,” is expected to attract more than 200 churches across the diocese.

He explained that the gathering marks the third session of the 19th Synod cycle and also coincides with the 57th anniversary of the diocese, established in 1969 following the consecration of the late Bishop Gideon Mwakelu.

Describing the Synod as the highest spiritual, legislative and administrative decision‑making body of the Church, Bishop Ike said it provides an opportunity to assess the diocese’s progress, strengthen spiritual growth and set direction for future mission work.

He noted that the 2026 edition continues a revival emphasis that began in 2024, aimed at deepening Christian commitment, repentance and prayer.

“We are continuing the revival cry because the Church, families, communities and the nation need divine intervention. Revival begins with obedience to God’s word, repentance from sin and relentless, believing prayers,” he said.

Bishop Ike announced that prominent Christian leaders would feature at the Synod, including Evangelist Gbile Akanni, who will serve as guest preacher at the opening sessions, while former Minister of Power and cleric, Rev. Prof. Chinedu Nebo, will minister at the closing thanksgiving service.

He added that several sessions—including the opening service, Bible studies, morning devotions, the bishop’s charge and the thanksgiving service—would be open to members of the public irrespective of denomination.

The Bishop also highlighted the historical significance of the venue, noting that St. Peter’s Church, Ogui, played a key role in the early growth of Enugu and the spread of Anglicanism in the region.

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