By Blessing Odega
Jos – Bishop Jwan Zhumbes, the Bishop of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Diocese of Bukuru, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to be fair to all political parties in the 2019 polls.
Zhumbes made this call on Sunday in Jos at the second session of the fourth synod, with its theme: “No More Barriers” at the Christ Anglican Church, Bukuru.
He said that INEC as the umpire, should give every political party and politician a level playing ground and make every vote to count.
The bishop also stressed the need for the elections to be conducted peacefully, devoid of political thuggery and bloodshed during and after the exercise.
According to him, all Nigerians and particularly the poor electorate look forward to the accomplishment of a fulfilled political development plan for the nation after the elections.
He also admonished politicians to fulfill their campaign promises by alleviating the suffering of the Nigerian masses when elected into public offices.
The bishop also urged the relevant authorities to put an end to the incessant herdsmen and farmers’ attacks resulting in needless bloodletting, stressing the need for peace this farming.
He maintained that farmers should have access to their farms to forestall hunger and starvation due largely to shortage of food production.
“Give Middle Belt, the food basket of Nigeria, a chance and let Nigeria progress; stop lawlessness and mayhem,” he said.
Zhumbes expressed regrets that the persistent attacks had reduced the number of worshipers and churches, as 10 churches were sacked by the crises in Riyom and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau.