Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State on Sunday presented a brand new SUV (Landcruiser Prado) as a show of love, friendship and support to the episcopacy of the new Anglican Bishop of Orlu Diocese, Rt. Rev. Benjamin Okeke.
Bishop Okeke broke the news himself to the large congregation when he was giving his vote of thanks during the occasion.
Governor Uzodimma told the Anglican Communion faithful who came in their numbers to witness the thanksgiving service in honour of Bishop Okeke’s election, consecration and enthronement as Bishop at the All Saints Anglican Church, Amaifeke, Orlu, that the Bishop has been a pillar of support for his spiritual growth and political career, and that he was glad that God remembered Bishop Okeke and chose and elevated him at his own time.
The Governor recalled that through Bishop Okeke, he learnt to worship God across denominational divides, describing him as a spiritual mentor, according to a statement by Oguwike Nwachuku, Chief Press Secretary/Media Adviser to the Governor.
Governor Uzodimma said he was touched by the sermon titled,”It is good to praise the Lord,” (Psalm 92:1) as preached by the Bishop of Okigwe-South, and Archbishop-elect of Owerri Province, the Rt. Rev. David Onuoha.
The governor thanked the college of Bishops who graced the occasion and assured them that the sermon that was preached said so much about what he could have said.
Governor Uzodimma however retorted that, “the Egyptians we saw yesterday we shall see no more,” in apparent response to the expectation of Imolites from his administration, to a thunderous applause.
In the sermon, Bishop Onuoha underscored the significance of praising God in appreciation of his favours and acknowledgement of his power to determine who to promote or demote at any point in time.
Bishop Onuoha urged Bishop Okeke to remain ever grateful to God throughout his episcopal journey, and never forget to honour him in praises saying, “without the presence of God, leadership was ineffective because only his presence has the power to break down any barrier,” adding that, “God’s absence leads to declaration of vacant seat in the place of leadership.”
Bishop Onuoha advised those in political leadership to talk less and do more, decrying that former Governor Rochas Okorocha was famous for talking when there was nothing to show for what he said.
He advised Governor Uzodimma to do what the eyes can see, noting, “as the scripture says, so that men will see their good deeds and glory God.”
In his remarks, Bishop Okeke thanked Governor Uzodimma for his kindness, generosity and love for the things of God regardless of religious denomination, and for always standing by him, and promised to continue to uphold his administration in prayers.
The event was witnessed by the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Prof. Placid Njoku, many Anglican Bishops and clergy of both Anglican and Catholic faith, serving and former state and national lawmakers, traditional rulers, government officials, politicians and business moguls.