The Emeritus Archbishop and Dean, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Maxwell Anikwenwa, has urged all eligible voters to collect their Permanent Voter Cards to enable them exercise their franchise in the forthcoming general elections.
The cleric made the call on Saturday during the dedication of Our Saviour’s Church, Awka, Anambra State.
The Archbishop, Ecclesiastical Province of the Niger, Most Rev. Alexander Ibezim, dedicated the Church.
Anikwenwa said the duty of every Nigerian remained casting his or her vote during elections, regardless of religious affiliations.
He warned the people who refused to vote not to complain if the outcome was not favourable to them.
He said, “Every Nigerian, irrespective of religious beliefs, should register and collect his/her PVC in order to carry out his/her civic responsibility.
“It is 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 have 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 Matthew 15:21, Archbishop Ibezim urged the congregation not to allow life challenges to hinder them from worshipping and rendering services to God.
Ibezim 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 your life challenges stop you from worshipping Jesus; 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 dignitaries at the occasion, Samuel Nwofor and candidate of All Progressive Grand Alliance for Awka South 1, Anambra State House of Assembly, also expressed joy at the 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.
