The Diocese of Owo, Anglican Communion has cautioned the lawmaker representing Owo/ Ose Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Timehin Adelegbe to tread lightly and warn his aides against unnecessary attacks on the personality of its Bishop, Rt Revd Stephen Fagbemi.
This is contained in a statement by Adesoye Ajayi, deputy Public Relations Officer, Diocese of Owo, Anglican Communion made available to Newsmen in Akure on Thursday.
Roving Reporters had reported that Bishop Fagbemi had in a sermon challenged the lawmaker on the need to be more accessible to his constituents.
The Bishop made the remarks during the remembrance service for the Late Oluwarotimi Akeredolu at the Cathedral Church of St Andrew, Owo, on December 27, 2024.
The comments have however stirred divergent reactions from the public especially from people of the Owo/Ose Constituency, as many of them backed the position of Bishop Fagbemi.
Aides of the lawmaker have also issued a series of statements to address claims raised by the Anglican cleric.
Reacting, the Anglican Church described some accusations against Bishop Fagbemi as unnecessary.
The statement reads, “We sincerely appreciate the patience and maturity demonstrated by our esteemed father in God, The Lord Bishop of Owo Anglican Diocese, The Rt Revd Stephen Ayodeji Fagbemi, PhD (Kent), FICT, FAT.
“Recent media statements by the aides of Hon. Timehin Adelegbe and reactions from certain political figures to the Bishop’s passing remarks during the remembrance service for the Late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, at the Cathedral Church of St Andrew, Owo, on December 27, 2024, have stirred controversy.
“Despite the provocations, we thank God for the Bishop’s godly wisdom in handling the situation.
“Accusations labeling the Bishop as a liar reflect a broader moral decline that the Church strives to address in our society.
“The Bishop’s remarks to Hon. Timehin Adelegbe during the recognition of dignitaries were meant as an admonition—an opportunity for self-reflection and growth.
“However, in this era, where many seek accolades regardless of their contributions, such counsel is often met with resistance.
“In light of this, the Diocesan Media & Legal Teams respectfully appeal to our elders within the Diocese who have close ties with Hon. Adelegbe to urge him to call his media aides to order.“
1 comment
Is Hon Adelegbe too big to be cautioned? So, because he’s now a MHR,he wants to be hero worshipped and feels he’s too big to be admonished/corrected? He should tread slowly. One expects his type to take such passing comments as a reflection on his past political activities and make adjustments. Afterall,Bp Fagbemi is also a member of his constituency and has a right to complain if he feels he’s not well represented. Hon Adelegbe should visit the Bishopscourt to ask for forgiveness and prayers from His Lordship