Rt. Rev. Ephraim Ikeakor, Bishop of the Diocese of Amichi in the Anglican Communion, has sharply criticized Nigeria’s political leadership, describing the nation as one where “looters are mistaken for leaders.” Speaking at a Pre-Synod Press Conference in Nnewi South, Anambra State, ahead of the 2025 Synod of the Diocese of Amichi, Bishop Ikeakor warned Nigerians not to expect positive change from politicians who prioritize personal gain over public service.
He lamented the absence of genuine political ideology among Nigerian politicians, stating, “We don’t have career politicians in Nigeria. What we have are businessmen in politics — people who lack political ideology and are only interested in grabbing power to continue looting and avoid accountability.”
Bishop Ikeakor condemned the wave of political defections and premature endorsements of the current administration, calling such actions selfish and insensitive to the suffering of ordinary citizens. “It is foolishness and insensitivity for politicians to begin subtle campaigns and endorsements barely two years into a four-year tenure. Instead of focusing on governance, they are already plotting their next move to retain power,” he said.
He expressed deep concern over the country’s direction, saying, “Nigeria is directionless under the current administration. I honestly don’t know where we are heading. The political elite don’t care about the masses, and I pray God touches their hearts. I don’t know how God will judge the members of the National Assembly — they are the most callous Nigerians.”
Highlighting the root of Nigeria’s political crisis, Bishop Ikeakor pointed to the lack of ideology and vision among politicians. He contrasted this with developed democracies, noting that party defections based on convenience rather than conviction are rampant in Nigeria. “You don’t see this kind of party-hopping in countries like the United States. A Republican doesn’t just jump into the Democratic Party because there’s a clear ideological difference. But in Nigeria, people jump ship not out of conviction, but to protect themselves from prosecution,” he explained.
He further criticized how party loyalty is exploited to evade justice, stating, “Once a governor completes his tenure and the EFCC begins probing his corrupt dealings, all he needs to do is defect to the ruling party and — like magic — all his sins are forgiven.”
Bishop Ikeakor concluded by urging Nigerians to stay vigilant and not be deceived by empty political promises or orchestrated endorsements, warning that silence would only embolden corrupt politicians.
