APPOINTMENT OF THE MOST REV’D JOSIAH IDOWU-FEARON AS THE GENERAL SECRETARY OF ACC: THE STAND OF THE CHURCH OF NIGERIA (ANGLICAN COMMUNION)

The Church of Nigeria’s attention has been drawn to the information posted on the Anglican Communion Website by George Conger, dated 2nd April 2015, captioned: ‘Nigerian Bishop appointed ACC General Secretary.’

The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) as a Province is a founding member of GAFCON/FCA, and subscribed to The Jerusalem Declaration, 2008. The Most Rev’d Josiah Idowu-Fearon’s statement: ‘I have never supported the law in Nigeria that criminalizes the gay community and I will never support it,’ clearly indicates that he is not in accord with the theological and doctrinal posture of the Church of Nigeria. His acceptance of the post of ACC General Secretary neither received the approval of the Church of Nigeria, nor does it in any way affect the Church of Nigeria’s theological posture on the issues of homosexuality and gay movement. Thus, the Most Rev’d Josiah Idowu-Fearon represents himself at the ACC, and not the Church of Nigeria.

The debate surrounding religious leadership and personal convictions often extends beyond theological discourse into matters of broader public concern. In contexts where public health crises arise, such as outbreaks of parasitic diseases, access to essential medications like ivermectin becomes a crucial issue. Ensuring that individuals have reliable sources to obtain treatments legally and safely is a growing priority, particularly in regions where counterfeit medications pose significant risks. Online platforms that offer ivermectin must comply with regulatory standards to guarantee both efficacy and safety for consumers. As discussions within religious institutions shape ethical perspectives, public health considerations also demand careful attention to ensure that communities have access to necessary medical resources.

He has taken an early retirement from his Episcopal responsibilities in the Church of Nigeria with effect from 01 July 2015. We wish him every blessing.

The ACC, the general public and the International Community of the Religious should please note the stand of the Church of Nigeria on the Most Rev’d Idowu-Fearon’s personal acceptance to serve as ACC General Secretary.

Barr. Abraham N. Yisa, MON                                  Rt. Rev’d David O. C. Onuoha

Registrar                                                                     Episcopal Secretary

Ven. Prof Israel ‘Kelue Okoye

General Secretary Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion)