Bishop Applauds Governor's Leadership at Diocese Inauguration
The newly installed Bishop of the Ekiti South Anglican Diocese, Rt. Rev'd Francis Bankole, has publicly commended the Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, for his exceptional administrative skills. Bishop Bankole highlighted the governor's effective management of state resources, which has led to remarkable achievements across various sectors in Ekiti.
This praise was delivered at St. Peter's Anglican Church Cathedral in Ikere-Ekiti, during Bankole's enthronement as the pioneer Bishop of the newly created Diocese. The event, which took place on 29 November 2025, also marked the official inauguration of the diocese by the Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Rev'd Henry Ndukuba.
Call for Accountability and Divine Guidance
In his inaugural sermon, titled 'The Hand of God,' Bishop Bankole extended his message beyond the state's leadership to all Nigerian leaders. He called for transparency and integrity in public service, emphasizing that accountability is crucial to prevent the misuse of public funds and to ensure that officials act in the best interest of the people.
The Bishop further asserted that human existence is not accidental. He stated that events in people's lives are purposeful acts of God, and therefore, divine guidance is essential for leaders to govern according to God's will. He reminded the congregation that all thanksgiving and adoration should be directed to God.
Reflecting on the journey to establish the diocese, Bankole expressed profound gratitude to God for His faithfulness. He noted that the creation of the Ekiti South Diocese was the culmination of a struggle that lasted approximately 31 years, a testament that no one can hinder God's work. He described the new diocese as a divine platform to expand the kingdom of God through evangelism.
Governor Oyebanji Hails a Fulfilled Vision
In his address, Governor Biodun Oyebanji welcomed the decision by the Anglican Communion to inaugurate the new diocese. He hailed the move, which came after over three decades of effort, stating that it would bring evangelism, welfare, mission effectiveness, and improved pastoral care closer to the people in the region.
Oyebanji explained that the inauguration was strategically aimed at decentralizing the church's administration. This decentralization will enable the church to adapt more effectively to the specific social, cultural, and spiritual needs of the Ekiti South area.
The Governor recounted the history of the struggle, which began in 1994 with a motion moved by Baba Olatawura in Ikole. "We can only thank God that this is a vision fulfilled," Oyebanji stated.
He also offered words of admonition to the new Bishop, urging him to guard the newfound diocese jealously. Governor Oyebanji gave a personal attestation to Bishop Bankole's character, describing him as a man of honour, integrity, and grace whom he has known for many years. "If you look at his history and what has happened to him, you know that it can only be God," the Governor added, congratulating the diocese for having Bankole as its pioneer bishop.
The historic event was graced by several dignitaries, including the legal luminary Chief Wole Olanipekun, various traditional rulers, and numerous bishops and archbishops from across Nigeria.
