66th Independence: Ekwueme seeks God’s mercy, urges unity, selfless leadership ahead of 2027

Apostle Goodheart Ekwueme

Apostle Goodheart Ekwueme

The Apostolic Leader of Revival House of Glory International Church (RHOGIC), Apostle Goodheart Ekwueme, has called for God’s mercy on Nigeria, urging political leaders to embrace sacrifice, humility and servant leadership ahead of the 2027 general election.

Ekwueme, who spoke at the 10th edition of The Gathering 2026 in Abuja on Thursday, said the forthcoming election was a critical moment for the country, expressing confidence that Nigeria would emerge stronger through divine intervention.

The gathering, organised by RHOGIC in collaboration with Horn of Revival Ministry (HORM), was held to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day anniversary under the theme “Nigeria, New Mercies”.

The cleric, son of former Vice-President Dr Alex Ekwueme, said he believed God would once again show mercy to Nigeria, while urging those in positions of authority to demonstrate a genuine commitment to the welfare of citizens.

“I won’t say the 2027 election is make or break, but I will say that God will show us mercy again,” he said.

He challenged elected and appointed public officials to regard leadership as a responsibility that demands sacrifice and service rather than an avenue for personal gain.

“Leadership is a responsibility. There is authority of leadership, but there’s responsibility. So, if God by chance has equipped you with that responsibility, whether elected office or non-elected, you should do well to be sacrificial and serve the people,” he said.

Emphasising the need for accountability in governance, Ekwueme said public officials should prioritise the interests of citizens rather than expect citizens to serve them.

“The people are not to serve you in government. You are to serve us, the citizens,” he said.

He also called for national unity and peaceful coexistence, urging Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious and cultural differences and embrace mutual care and responsibility.

Holding the Nigerian flag, the cleric described it as a symbol of unity, integrity and hope, representing the country’s diverse ethnic and religious communities.

“May God keep us together as one. And may we also learn to care for each other. You and I ought to be each other’s keepers,” he said.

Linking Nigeria’s independence to its dependence on God, Ekwueme said humility was essential to the country’s spiritual and national progress.

“I dare say humility is God-dependence. Happy God-dependence, Nigeria,” he declared.

The Gathering is an annual Christian interdenominational event dedicated to prayer, worship and spiritual revival, with particular emphasis on seeking divine intervention in Nigeria’s affairs and praying for its leadership.

One of the central prayer focuses of the 10th edition was Psalm 124:6-8, which highlights thanksgiving for God’s deliverance and protection and affirms that help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

Breaking news & top stories

Stay connected with The Sun Newspaper

Get breaking news, exclusive stories, and live updates delivered straight to your phone. Join thousands of readers already following us on Whatsapp Channel and Telegram.

Breaking news & top stories

Follow The Sun Newspaper

Get live updates & exclusive stories delivered straight to your phone.

Breaking news & top stories

Stay connected with The Sun Newspaper

Get breaking news, exclusive stories, and live updates delivered straight to your phone. Join thousands of readers already following us on Whatsapp Channel and Telegram.