Power is transient – Cleric, at Alake’s birthday

Alake

The Bishop of Egba Anglican Diocese, Rt. Rev. Mathew Oluremi Owadayo, has urged Nigerian leaders to be sincere to their people, saying they must always remember that all leadership positions are transient.

The cleric gave this advice in his sermon during the 64th birthday service of the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta on Sunday.

The service was attended by dignitaries, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and his Osun State counterpart, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola.

Addressing Obasanjo and others at the service, the bishop urged Nigerian leaders to uphold justice and fairness in order to attract the favour of God.

According to Owadayo, man should strive for the kingdom of God and His righteousness, rather than “strive for wealth and position.”

He described wealth and position as vanity.

The cleric said no position or condition was permanent in the life of men.

He added, “Whatever position you occupy today, you must be aware that it is not permanent. You must show love to your fellow human beings and strive to better the lot of the people.”

He congratulated the Alake on his birthday. Owadayo described the monarch as a devout Christian, and urged him not to lose focus but to “rely on God for continuous wisdom and counseling.”

The first lesson at the service, taken from the Gospel of Mathew 6:25, was read by the monarch.

Other dignitaries at the service included the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, who was represented by his Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Rotimi Agunsoye; and the Ogun State Deputy Governor, Alhaja Salmot Badru.