Orogun Main Town, Delta State – On this year’s Africa Anti-Corruption Day, Jewe Group of Schools, Orogun Town, led by Andrew Oviri D, and the Delta State Coordinator of Priests Peace & Justice Initiative (PPJ), Pastor Anthony Chukwuneme, came together to commemorate the occasion and called upon Pentecostals to renew their determination to combat corruption by establishing social arms as instruments in the fight against this menace.
Under the theme “Fight Corruption Now for the Africa We Want,” the African Anti-Corruption Day 2023 seeks to address the prevailing challenge of corruption across many African nations. Corruption undermines socio-economic development, erodes public trust, and hampers progress. As organizations committed to transparency, integrity, and accountability, Jewe Group of Schools and PPJ strongly support anti-corruption efforts and the promotion of ethical practices at all levels of society. They view corruption as not only a violation of justice but also as an injustice against the people.
Recognizing the biblical perspective that government exists to promote the common good, Jewe Group of Schools and PPJ emphasize that corrupt leaders who deprive the people of their God-given resources are infringing upon their rights. Moreover, from a secular standpoint, corruption is increasingly recognized as a violation of human rights, evolving from a mere leadership misdemeanor to a fundamental violation of such rights.
On this occasion of the African Anti-Corruption Day, collaborative action and a multi-stakeholder approach are highlighted as crucial to effectively combat corruption. It is imperative for people of faith, governments, civil society organizations, private sector entities, and citizens to work hand-in-hand in establishing robust anti-corruption frameworks. Comprehensive measures must be implemented to prevent, detect, and prosecute corrupt practices.
The Delta State Coordinator of Priests Peace & Justice Initiative (PPJ), Pastor Anthony Chukwuneme emphasized the responsibility of Christians to stand against corruption, that it is a sinful social order that goes against God’s purpose and plan for governing human society.
While acknowledging the efforts made by governments and institutions across the continent to strengthen anti-corruption mechanisms and enact legislation promoting transparency and accountability, Pastor Anthony Chukwuneme emphasized the need for continued work. “Concrete actions and tangible results are essential in the fight against corruption.” He called upon governments to prioritize anti-corruption efforts and allocate sufficient resources to strengthen the institutions responsible for combating corruption.
Chief Andrew Oviri, on his part, urged individuals, businesses, and organizations to embrace ethical practices, reject corrupt behaviors, and contribute to a transparent and accountable society. He specifically enjoined Pentecostal Christians and the entire Protestant Christian community to reflect upon the biblical warrant for committing to the fight against corruption. He emphasized that “God, being a sovereign God who identifies with justice and compassion, calls upon His people to stand alongside Him in the fight for justice.
Chief Oviri further stated that “the collaboration between PPJ and Jewe Group of Schools is deliberate and strategic because it will help to recruit an army of young people in the fight against corruption.”
Dr. Agbaji Orinya,the Program Manager of Priests Peace & Justice Initiative, an arm of the Palace of Priests Assembly had in a press conference a week ago in Abuja called upon all Nigerians, especially Pentecostals, to support this year’s theme, “Fight Corruption Now for the Africa We Want.”
He urged them to return to the dual mandate of the church, which involves supporting, establishing, and institutionalizing social arms as instruments to combat corruption and social injustice. Dr. Orinya encouraged all beneficiaries of Priests Peace & Justice Initiative, particularly those in the 26 states where the organization is present, to commemorate the day by taking various actions aligned with the ongoing leader’s month of action. These actions include preaching anti-corruption messages during sermons, organizing rallies, and holding pep talks using various touchpoints to raise awareness about the costs and consequences of corruption.
The collaborative efforts of Jewe Group of Schools and Priests Peace & Justice Initiative exemplify their commitment to tackling corruption and fostering a just and accountable society. Through their united stance and advocacy, they hope to contribute to the Africa we all aspire to build, one free from the shackles of corruption and filled with opportunities for growth and development.