A prominent cleric in Cross River State, Archbishop Emmah Isong, has called on Nigerians to support leaders who demonstrate integrity and fear of God, pledging backing for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Isong made the call during the inauguration of the Cross River State chapter of the Arise with Renewed Hope Initiative, a political support group aligned with the current administration’s Renewed Hope agenda.
Inaugurated as chairman of a 30-member state committee, Isong said the initiative would mobilise grassroots support not only for Tinubu but also for Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, and Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu.
He noted that the group aims to promote unity and good governance while discouraging what he described as “the emergence of leaders without moral values.”
“The Cross River chapter of this initiative is proud of the synergy among our leaders, and we are determined to build on it to unite the people ahead of the 2027 elections,” Isong said.
He stressed that leadership must be anchored on strong moral principles, warning that entrusting power to individuals without the fear of God could have serious consequences for the country.
“Power must be used by those who fear God. It is dangerous for society when people without such values are in leadership,” he added.
The cleric commended Governor Eno for his commitment to good governance, noting that the initiative would support policies and leaders that prioritise the welfare of citizens.
Isong also urged religious leaders across the country to actively participate in nation-building by guiding their congregations toward responsible civic engagement.
“As religious leaders, we are not only concerned about the next election but the next generation. We must ensure that people with the right values emerge as leaders,” he said.
He further emphasised the importance of voter mobilisation, particularly among Nigerians in the diaspora, urging them to return home and participate in the electoral process.
According to him, the committee would focus on grassroots engagement and strategic mobilisation to ensure a successful outing for its supported candidates in 2027.
The group reiterated its commitment to backing a “tripod of tested leadership”, expressing confidence that its efforts would yield positive outcomes in the next general elections.
