News

Akeredolu Bars Christian Leaders From Holding National Prayer

Published

7 years ago

September 14, 2017

By Niyi Olutunde, Akure

Christian Leaders under the auspices of the Niger Delta Christian Leaders Forum (NDCLF), which comprises of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) Thursday locked out of the International Events Centre, ‘The Dome’ Akure the venue of their proposed prayer summit by the Ondo state government.

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu

The body which were drawn from the nine, Ondo, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, Cross River, Abia, Edo, Imo states of Niger Delta had earlier organized a programme tagged, ‘2017 Prayer Summit’ for Nigeria.

According to the General Secretary of NDCLF, Bishop Dr. Eddy Bebor said their fully determined to call for God’s intervention in finding a lasting solution to various challenges in the region and Nigeria at large.

While commenting on government determination to deny them the use of the scheduled venue, Bishop Bebor said there was no disappointment since prayer could be offered in any place.

Bebor who was reacting on behalf of the NDCLF National President, Bishop Ayo Oritsejafor who was unavoidably absent said Christians stake in the Niger Delta is to call on God who has solution to all challenges.

Also speaking at the occasion, the NDCLF Chairman in Ondo State, Rev Dr. Samuel Obakulujo however debunked the insinuation that participants were locked out of the venue saying the body is only obeying the instruction of God to pray any where.

He noted that, “federal government programme overruled our programme, we have achieved our aim, purpose is prayer and that has been done as we pray for Nigeria, Ondo and entire states in the Niger Delta region.

However, most of the participants who spoke with CityMirrorNews expressed disappointment and regret that ‘a Christian Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu could treat fellow Christians in such manner.

They said the story could had been different if a Christian Governor had treated Muslims with such contempt after following due process to secure the venue.

While reacting, the state Commissioner for Information, Mr. Yemi Olowolabi said he was not aware of such scheduled programme.