Deputy General Secretary of the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC), South-South/South-East, Dr. Innocent Lord-Douglas has urged citizens to intensify prayers for those in positions of authority, warning that neglecting such responsibility could have negative consequences for society.
He made the appeal on March 29, 2026, during the unveiling of his book, “Praying For Those In Authority: A Biblical Perspective,” in Port Harcourt.
Drawing from his experience from his current position in the union, Lord-Douglas noted that leaders often face competing pressures from communities, institutions, and global forces, which can affect their performance.
He explained that the book was inspired by the challenges leaders encounter across various sectors, noting that individuals in authority frequently grapple with both internal and external influences that shape their decisions.
According to him, while many leaders assume office with good intentions, such pressures can lead to unintended outcomes. He stressed that consistent and informed prayers could help leaders navigate these challenges and make decisions in the public interest.
Lord-Douglas added that although prayers are offered across the country, there is a need for deeper understanding and stronger commitment. He observed that public criticism of leaders often outweighs intercessory efforts and called for a shift toward more constructive engagement through prayer.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Rivers State, Samuel Ogan, highlighted the importance of praying for leaders across political, religious, organisational, and family spheres. He said such support could positively influence decision-making and policy formulation.
Ogan noted that the book outlines the biblical mandate to pray for those in authority, its purpose and impact, as well as practical steps for doing so. He added that leaders at all levels from the presidency to local government require sustained intercession to lead effectively.
He also emphasised the need to pray for labour leaders, stating that spiritual support is vital in their engagements with government and institutions to advance citizens’ welfare.
Also speaking, legal practitioner Henry Ekine said failure to pray for leaders could contribute to issues such as poor governance, insecurity, poverty, and social unrest. He noted that citizens have a dual responsibility to hold leaders accountable while also supporting them through prayer for the overall good of society.
Ekine added that sustained prayers could positively influence leaders’ decisions, aligning them with the aspirations of the people and improving governance outcomes.
The book explores themes including the biblical command to pray for leaders, examples from scripture, the impact of prayer on governance, and practical approaches to praying for different categories of authority.
The event concluded with a renewed call for citizens to balance civic responsibility with spiritual commitment in the pursuit of national development.
