The Enthronement of the bishop of the Diocese of Akoko Edo
The Diocese of Akoko Edo is one of the youngest dioceses in the Anglican Communion, having been inaugurated in 2007 by the then Primate of All Nigeria, Archbishop Peter Akinola. The diocese covers the Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria, and has over 100 churches and 50 clergy.
The Diocese recently witnessed a historic event as it welcomed its second bishop, Rt. Rev Ebenezer Omeiza Saiki, who was Enthrone on August 29, 2023 at the Cathedral Church of St James Cathedral, Igarra, He succeeded the pioneer bishop, Rt. Rev Jolly Oyekpen, who died in October 2022 after 15 years of episcopal ministry.
The enthronement ceremony of the new bishop took place on September 2, 2023 at the St James Cathedral, Igarra, the headquarters of the diocese. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries from the church and the government, including the governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, who promised to continue to work with the church to ensure a better society and state. The ceremony also featured cultural displays and songs of praise by various groups and choirs from the diocese.
In his first homily as bishop, Rt. Rev Saiki expressed his gratitude to God for his election and his humility for his unworthiness. He said he was not qualified to be a bishop, but it was by God's mercy that he was chosen. He likened his experience to that of Kings Saul and David who became kings of Israel when they were not expecting it.
He also paid tribute to his predecessor, Rt. Rev Oyekpen, whom he described as his mentor and father. He said he had served under him for 16 years and had learned a lot from him. He said he would build on the successes of his predecessor and work with all in the diocese and beyond to pursue evangelism and administration.
He further declared that he had come as a servant leader who was willing to sacrifice and even die for the cause of God. He urged the people to trust God for the best in every situation and to cooperate with him in fulfilling God's purpose for the diocese.
The Diocese of Akoko Edo rejoices in having a new shepherd who is committed to leading them in faith and love. The diocese also prays for God's grace and guidance for their new bishop as he embarks on his episcopal journey.
