Category: Religion

  • Pastor Adeboye in Jos, sympathizes with Plateau over repeated attacks

    Pastor Adeboye in Jos, sympathizes with Plateau over repeated attacks

    Jos – The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has sympathised with the government and people of Plateau State over the recent spate of violent attacks in the State.

    Pastor Adeboye who visited Governor Caleb Mutfwang at the Government House in Little Rayfield, Jos, as he holds a five-day programme in the State, prophetically declared that the season of bloodshed has come to an end.

    He described the killings as senseless and heart-wrenching, stating that the Church is deeply concerned about the persistent loss of innocent lives and has been fervently interceding for the State, trusting God to intervene and bring lasting peace.

    “We are here to encourage you and to let you know that even in these difficult times, we have not relented in our prayers for Plateau State. We have dedicated a special hour of prayer for the State, believing that a new story will emerge, one of peace, restoration, and hope. There are times when the flesh may fail, but God never fails,” Pastor Adeboye stated.

    The cleric also informed Governor Mutfwang that he and his team were in the State for their annual retreat at the RCCG Camp in Kassa, Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area and it was important to pay a visit to the Governor and offer prayers for the State’s healing and restoration.

    In his response, Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressed deep appreciation for the RCCG’s consistent support and spiritual intercession on behalf of Plateau State and noted that the RCCG Camp, once deserted due to insecurity, has now resumed activities, signifying a return of hope and resilience.

    He credited the proactive efforts of security agencies and their strong collaboration with his administration for the improved security situation, saying, “It is only when men of God lift their voices to heaven that God grants them wisdom and answers the cry of His people.

    “We thank you, sir, for your love for the land and your commitment to building the body of Christ. We look forward to joining the prayers because we believe that as we look up to God, our refuge and strength, He will give us divine direction and the wisdom to lead aright.”

  • Vatican to cut phone signal during conclave

    Vatican to cut phone signal during conclave

    The Vatican said Monday it would cut the phone signal within the tiny city state during the conclave to elect a new pope — but this would not affect St Peter’s Square.

    The office of the presidency of the Governorate of the Vatican City State said that “starting from 3:00 pm (1300 GMT) on May 7, all the transmission systems of the telecommunications signal for mobile telephones present in the territory of the Vatican City State… will be deactivated”.

    “The signal will be restored after the announcement of the election of the supreme pontiff,” it said in a statement.

    But the deactivation will not cover St Peter’s Square, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni told reporters.

    Thousands of faithful are expected to gather in the square in front of St Peter’s Basilica to await the announcement of a successor to Pope Francis, who died on April 21.

    A total of 133 cardinals from across the globe will gather in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel on Wednesday to begin voting for a new head of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.

    The election is carried out in utmost secrecy and the cardinals will be required to leave their mobile phones behind when they enter the conclave, Bruni said.

  • Trump posts spoof picture of self dressed as pope

    Trump posts spoof picture of self dressed as pope

    US President Donald Trump posted on Friday a spoof picture of himself dressed as the pope on his Truth Social platform after joking that he would like to be the next Catholic pontiff.

    The president is seen in what appears to be an AI-generated color image, with his right index finger pointed toward the sky, wearing papal regalia, including white robes, a gold crucifix pendant and the miter hat.

    It comes after Trump joked to reporters this week that he would like to be the next pope, just days before cardinals are due to start the conclave to elect the successor of Pope Francis who died on April 21.

    Asked who he would like to succeed Pope Francis, Trump said: “I’d like to be pope, that would be my number one choice.”

    Trump went on to say that he did not have a preference but said there was a cardinal in New York who was “very good.”

    He appeared to be referring to the archbishop of New York, Timothy Dolan, a theological conservative and fiercely opposed to abortion.

    Trump attended the funeral service of Pope Francis last week, his first foreign trip since returning to power.

    About 20 percent of Americans declare themselves Catholic, and exit polls indicated in November that they voted around 60 percent in favor of Trump.

    Pope Francis had arguably been one of the most powerful moral voices on the world stage critical of Trump.

    When Trump first ran for president in 2016, Francis was unsparing on his signature promise to build a border wall to seal off Mexico.

    Francis told reporters, “Anyone, whoever he is, who only wants to build walls and not bridges is not a Christian.”

    Cardinals will gather on May 7 in a conclave in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel to elect a new pope.

  • The soul of the nation cannot survive without its workers — Archbishop Josef Bassey

    The soul of the nation cannot survive without its workers — Archbishop Josef Bassey

    In a compelling Workers’ Day message, The Archbishop of Calabar and Spiritual Leader of God’s Heritage Global Mission, Archbishop Josef Bassey, has applauded the resilience and sacrifice of Nigeria’s labour force, describing them as the “silent strength and survival system of the nation.”

    Addressing the nation via an official statement, the Archbishop celebrated Nigerian workers across all sectors for continuing to uphold productivity and national progress despite facing what he termed “crippling economic hardship and near-impossible living conditions.”

    “In a nation where inflation has broken the back of the average worker’s income, and the dignity of labour is hanging by a thread, Nigerian workers still rise daily, give their best, and hold this country together. This is not ordinary—it is heroic,” he declared.

    Archbishop Bassey decried the harsh realities where workers can no longer survive—let alone thrive—on earned income alone, and called on government, policymakers, and employers of labour to immediately address the dire welfare conditions affecting the workforce.

    “There must be a moral and national awakening. A system where those who build the nation cannot feed their homes is unsustainable, unjust, and dangerous,” he warned.

    Encouraging workers not to lose hope, he charged them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence and faith in a new Nigeria, stating that “true labour never goes unrewarded—by God or by history.”

    The Archbishop concluded his message with a prayer for strength, renewal, and divine reward for every Nigerian worker, while declaring that the time for structural intervention is now.

  • Catholic cleric, Knights to youths: Eschew abortion, drug abuse

    Catholic cleric, Knights to youths: Eschew abortion, drug abuse

    LAGOS —THE Order of the Knights and Ladies of Saint Mulumba, Lagos Metropolitan Council, Region 4 has warned youths to shun abortion, drug abuse or other related activities that negatively affect the dignity of life.

    The call was made at the yearly Catholic Pro-life seminar held at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, Ikotun in Lagos.

    The seminar was organised to sensitise the public on the dangers of abortion to human life.

    Addressing secondary school students and youths of the Order, YSM, on the theme: ‘Let All Say Yes to Life’ the parish Priest, Saints Joachim and Ann Catholic Church, Rev. Fr. Andrew Abhulime said abortion and drug abuse are prevalent issues that bother the mind of any critical minded person due to their harmful effects in the society.

    Abhulime said: “It is compulsory for humans to always say yes to life, no matter the circumstances or the situation. That life is a precious gift not from us but from God. We are just receptacles and we are to promote, protect and grow it to its natural end. Any acts or inaction that impedes life is unnatural and therefore it is evil.”

    Explaining the rationale behind the seminar, coordinating Grand Knight of Region 4, Worthy Brother Fabian Ewendu, premised it on the need to underscore the evil of abortion, drug abuse, and rape, among other social vices.

    Urging the participating youths to live a chaste life and not give in to peer pressure that tends to mislead them, Ewendu said the Catholic Church wants to prepare its youth to respect life and preserve it.

  • President Tinubu donates palliatives to Christian, Muslim faithful in South-East, South-South

    President Tinubu donates palliatives to Christian, Muslim faithful in South-East, South-South

    President Bola Tinubu, on Friday, donated palliative items to Christian and Muslim faithful in the South-East and South-South zones of the country to cushion the effect of the economic hardship in the country.

    The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the donation was unveiled in Owerri on behalf of the president by Gov. Hope Uzodimma of Imo.

    In a speech, the president said that the donation aimed to support the Christian and Muslim faithful to break their fast.

    He said the fasting and prayer period called for charity and that the gesture had more spiritual importance than physical.

    “As we work hard to bring permanent solution to the hunger in the land and high cost of living which is a global thing, the president has decided to intervene from time to time with palliative measures to cushion the effect of hardship occasioned by global economy recession.

    “The government is investing a lot of money in agriculture and livestock development to ensure food security and sufficiency.

    “This interim intervention is to cushion the effect of the gap that is created between the period of planting and harvesting,” the president said.

    The governor urged the faithful of the two religions to commit the country to “serious prayers”, saying: “As you pray, pray for God not to allow the president to be distracted.

    “As long as he is implementing his line of programmes, Nigeria will be a land of prosperity.”

    He further said that each state would get two trailer loads of rice, amounting to 1,200 bags as well as cartons of noodles to break their fast.

    He announced a donation of N5 million support by the president to each state for fueling and transportation of the items.

    He further urged the governors to be transparent in the distribution of the items and ensure that they are distributed mostly to the poor and down trodden.

    In separate remarks, the chairmen of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and leaders of the Muslim communities in the 11 states of the two zones commended the president “for being magnanimous” to them during the fasting season.

    They urged the government to double efforts and provide enabling environment that would promote economic development and self-sufficiency for the nation.

    The chairman of CAN in Imo, Rev. Divine Eches, prayed to God to sustain, protect and grant the president the wisdom to continue to provide quality leadership for the country.

    He commended Uzodimma for the developmental strides in Imo and prayed God to continue to strengthen him in his effort to develop the state.

  • Restore water sacrifices, traditional worshippers urge Anambra Govt

    Restore water sacrifices, traditional worshippers urge Anambra Govt

    AWKA – Traditional worshippers in Anambra State, under the umbrella of the Nzuko Odinani Welfare Association (NOWA), have called on the state government to reinstate water sacrifices, arguing that it remains a fundamental aspect of Igbo spiritual worship.

    Their appeal comes in response to the recently approved Anambra State Homeland Security Law, which bans water sacrifices and prescribes penalties of either a ₦20 million fine, six years imprisonment, or both for violators.

    During an interaction with state government officials in Awka, NOWA President-General, Nze Ezeafor Izuegbu, and Secretary-General, Nze Dike Ugbaja, commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for prioritizing the state’s security but urged him to reconsider the ban on water sacrifices.

    “Water sacrifice is a key aspect of Igbo spiritual practices. It has been in existence since the time of our forefathers, and without these sacrifices, we cannot perform our spiritual duties.”

    They proposed a compromise, suggesting that the government allocate designated sections of streams for sacrifices while ensuring periodic clean-up efforts to maintain environmental hygiene.

    “Water is life. If the state government stops this practice, it is taking life away from us,” they added.

    The association also urged the government to intervene against alleged intimidation of traditional worshippers by security operatives and community leaders. They pledged to support the government’s efforts in maintaining a clean and healthy environment while ensuring that unethical practitioners are identified and expelled.

    Responding to their concerns, the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Comrade Don Onyenji, reassured the group that Governor Soludo has not banned traditional religious practices in Anambra State.

    “The governor’s primary concern is to keep Anambra’s water bodies clean and safe for both residents and tourists. Traditional religion should be practiced in a responsible manner,” he stated.

    He also appreciated the association’s willingness to support the government’s environmental initiatives.

    With this ongoing dialogue, traditional worshippers hope for a resolution that balances cultural preservation with environmental sustainability in Anambra State.

  • RAMADAN TALK: Pregnant/nursing woman 2: Fast only if there’s no hardship

    RAMADAN TALK: Pregnant/nursing woman 2: Fast only if there’s no hardship

    As-salam Alaikum waramotullai, wa barakatuh! Wrapping up the issue discussed yesterday on breastfeeding woman as regards fasting during in this month, the same condition applies for the pregnant woman. The condition that if she fears continue with fasting will harm her pregnancy, then fasting is not obligatory on her. I“ It is proven in the hadith of Anas ibn Maalik al-Ka’bi, narrated by Ahmad and the authors of al-Sunan with a saheeh isnaad, that the Prophet (pbuh) granted them a freedom not to fast, and he regarded them as being like travelers. But they have to make up the fasts later, just like travelers. The scholars explained that they are only allowed not to fast if fasting is too difficult for them, as in the case of one who is sick, or if they fear for their children. The two are related because when the pregnant woman gives birth, she becomes impure from nifaas and also breastfeeding. The point being made here is that when there is not difficulty in the condition of either of them, they will have to fast. Note that fidyatu-toham is not recommended for these people because their condition is not permanent.

  • Rewane, Adedipe, others for RCCG Economic Summit

    Rewane, Adedipe, others for RCCG Economic Summit

    Renowned economists Bismarck Rewane, Dr Abiodun Adedipe and others are billed to attend the 2025 Edition of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Christ the Lord Parish, Lekki Economic Summit which is scheduled to be held this in Lagos.

    Rewane, the CEO of Financial Derivatives Company Limited, who is the keynote speaker is expected to give an in-depth analysis of Nigeria’s macroeconomic challenges and opportunities. He will also discuss the importance of policy-driven solutions in mitigating economic volatility.

    Ms Olive Emodi will moderate the panel discussion featuring esteemed economists as panelists. Dr Abiodun Adedipe, Founder/Chief Consultant, B Adedipe & Associates, Mr Ugodre Obi-Chukwu, Founder/CEO of Nairametrics, and Mr Opeyemi Agbaje, CEO, RTC Advisory Services Limited.

    They will be deliberating on crucial economic themes, offering expert perspectives on the state of the economy and potential pathways to stability.

    This Summit is expected to enjoy impressive turnout, with approximately over 500 physical attendees and additional virtual participants billed to engage in the discussions.

    Pastor Tunde Netufo, the Assistant Pastor in Charge of Region 11 and Pastor in Charge of Lagos Province 20, reaffirmed the Church commitment to fostering economic literacy and resilience and encouraging continued dialogue on Nigeria’s financial future.

    The renowned Chartered Accountant stated further that ‘Nigeria’s economic development and knowledge of its impacts on our existence are the main reasons we as a church have decided to organise this summit. It is also one of our contributions to the economic discussion and the overall wellbeing of our people’.

    This Summit comes at a critical time as the nation is still grappling with the aftermath of subsidy removal and exchange liberalization policies which have significantly impacted inflation and household economies.

    With the recent passage of the 2025 budget, the Summit will seek to provide businesses and families with a clearer understanding of the economic variables at play.

    The financial experts who have been assembled will expectedly   expound on the trends and policy options, and offer strategic insights for navigating the present economic climate.

  • Unraveling that Zion testimony debacle

    Unraveling that Zion testimony debacle

    It was just a few days ago that the news broke about a young Lady named Loveth, who shared her fairy tale testimony of her grass-to-grace leap and divine turnaround that landed her into becoming a proud owner of a mansion in a notable estate in faraway Enugu State.

    The testimony has a root in a prophecy given during the Open Heaven ministration of Evangelist Ebuka Obi, Spiritual Director of the Zion Prayer Movement Outreach in February 2024. The young lady later returned to share her testimony of success that appeared to align with the earlier prophecy, but sadly, her testimony was discovered to be untrue.

    To the unsuspecting public, so many questions beg for answer: is the testimony sponsored or voluntarily self-orchestrated? For those thinking that the ministry could be peddling false testimonies I ask, is it reasonable that they would spend one whole year orchestrating it, considering they air about twenty or more per service, two times a week? What would the Church stand to benefit from such a scheme – attract more members, considering the membership is already overflowing? Is this an isolated case or are there many of such cases? To the best of my knowledge, this is an isolated case among the multiples of outstanding testimonies featured on the church’s platforms.

    The Zion Prayer movement Outreach has become a great brand renowned nationwide and in the international community. The active members are in millions and branches in so many nations of the world. To my mind, such a ministry has grown beyond the need for orchestrated testimonies. The Law of large numbers alone ensures there are too many quality testimonies to feature, without the need for any shenanigans. The real challenge is screening out the best.

    Under the leadership of the highly anointed Evangelist Ebuka Obi, the Zion Ministry has zero-tolerance for obscenity, fraud, demonic consultations and all form of vices. Evangelist Ebuka’s crusade style of puritanism has earned him open confrontation with Native Doctors especially of eastern confraternities. Sadly, his puritanism has also earned him envy and hatred from the established fellow clerics of the Christian faith. Some have openly confronted him while others are still acting covertly. Attempts have been made on his life without success and it is not surprising this new tactic of Blackmail may be part of their arsenal.

    Evangelist Ebuka Obi’s uncompromising practices, coupled with the huge success of the ministry in just over a decade has made him and the ministry the subject of acrimonious envy. It is the destiny of success that it always attracts detractors. Attacks on successful people and movements is not a new phenomenon. In fact, as far back as the times of Christ on earth, His ministry was subject to so many attacks and the establishment sought to kill Him! The comfort comes from the realisation that when you are on God’s mission, nobody can terminate it until God Himself is done!

    In today’s Christianity, especially the Pentecostals and Charismatics, the working of miracles are very essential in planting and promoting new brands. But the solidification of brands rely more on structures, protocols and sound doctrine. This fact answers the question of whether the ’fake’ mansion testimony of Miss Loveth was orchestrated by the ministry or Evangelist Ebuka Obi. It would be shocking that an already well established brand with up to 10 million members worldwide, would be desperate to that extent. This same Ministry handles testimonies in multiples every service day (Wednesdays and Sundays). What would be the need for faking testimonies when the Ministry already has more than enough to handle during the limited broadcast times?

    Evangelist Ebuka Obi is a self-disciplined man who has openly challenged his colleagues to the test of chastity. He requests any one of them who can confirm to have never indulged in sexual sins to come out in the open! He has also been a scourge and thorn in the flesh of fraudsters, popularly called yahoo-yahoo! Is that the kind of person who would now be orchestrating testimonies?

    To those who would question why the ministry did not carry out due diligence before accepting and sharing the Loveth story, the blunt answer is that they actually did enough by requesting for the evidence of her claim, which she presented in video format. It was this video evidence that actually exposed her lies eventually. So, rather than condemn, we should praise the Ministry, more so as crime detection is not their core competence or responsibility! That is for the Police. Those who also question why an ‘all-seeing’ Prophet did not know a plot was being hatched against him should consider that it is the prerogative of God to reveal things to his Servants at His own time and for His own glory alone! Sometimes, God allows both the tares and the wheat together for the purpose of a good harvest.

    The questions to ask ourselves is how many of us can run a business with 10,000 customers without an issue? These Men of God we keep disparaging carelessly run congregations with countless members from all walks of life. We must appreciate their industry and efforts to keep our society same and pious.

    As to the case of Loveth, we should be satisfied that the Police has already been involved. They are the right authorities by Law to investigate all forms of crime. Conjectures, speculations, rumours and other negative emotions do not help but rather detract the course of genuine investigations. Let the general public allow the professionals do their job this time around.

    Dan Aibangbe is a Media and Public Relations Consultant