ASABA, DELTA STATE — July 15, 2026
The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Oleh, Rt. Rev. John Usiwoma Aruakpor, has come under criticism from some members of the Isoko community and the Anglican Communion following his participation in a meeting where leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office.
The meeting, held in Otor-Igho, Isoko North Local Government Area, was attended by APC leaders from the Owhe Clan. Participants endorsed President Tinubu’s re-election, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, and Isoko North Local Government Chairman Godwin Ogorugba, citing what they described as their developmental achievements.
However, Bishop Aruakpor’s presence at the gathering has sparked mixed reactions, with some Isoko indigenes and Anglican faithful expressing concern over what they described as his involvement in partisan politics.
Several critics argued that religious leaders, particularly bishops, should maintain political neutrality in order to preserve the confidence of worshippers with different political affiliations. Some also stated that if the bishop intends to actively participate in partisan politics, he should consider stepping down from his ecclesiastical office.
Some Anglican clerics, who spoke anonymously, also expressed reservations about the bishop’s participation in political activities, urging him to uphold the non-partisan tradition expected of church leaders.
Others, however, maintained that while every Nigerian has a constitutional right to political participation, religious leaders should exercise caution to avoid actions that may create the perception of political bias within the church.
As of the time of filing this report, Bishop John Usiwoma Aruakpor had not publicly responded to the criticisms regarding his attendance at the APC meeting.
The development has reignited discussions on the role of religious leaders in Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more reactions emerge.
