Anglican Vicar Encourages Church Leaders to Advocate for Truth in Government Amidst Calls for Reconciliation in Nigeria
Venerable Dr. Tobi Adeyẹoluwa, the Vicar in charge of the Anglican Church of the Ascension in Akobo Archdeaconry, Ibadan, has called upon church leaders to courageously address the truth with the government regarding the prevailing situation in the country.
Dr. Adeyẹoluwa made these statements during the 2023 Jesus Festival, which is themed “Season of Healing.” yesterday in the Church premises at General Gas, Akobo.
Dr. Adeyẹoluwa expressed his concern about some clerics compromising their standards due to close associations with political leaders, emphasizing that the church, with its formidable structure and global reach, deserves unhindered government cooperation.
He underscored the substantial contributions of the church in poverty alleviation, school establishments, and vocational training centers, going so far as to suggest that churches could even take part in infrastructure projects if encouraged by the government.
Dr Adeyẹoluwa asserted that the nation is in dire need of healing, as many are struggling and trapped in poverty, with only Jesus holding the key to this healing.
“The festival, scheduled from October 21st to 29th, is dedicated to addressing these concerns, the rising cases of depression and even suicide across the country highlight the desperate need for healing, The Vicar emphasized.
Dr. Adeyẹoluwa acknowledged the commendable nature of government palliatives but raised concerns about their uncoordinated distribution, highlighting that many less privileged individuals were left without access to federal relief packages.
He also urged clerics and Christians elected to political offices to view their positions as opportunities to transform lives through sustainable initiatives in health, education, and citizen security.
Discussing the release of Yoruba Nation Agitator Sunday Adeyemo, known as Sunday Igboho, by Benin Republic authorities, Dr. Adeyẹoluwa likened him to the biblical Moses and advised Igboho to be cautious upon his return to Nigeria and encouraged him not to engage in protests or conflict but to allow God to champion his cause.
The Vicar attributed Igboho’s actions to a system perceived as unjust, where some felt the government favored one tribe over another. He suggested that as long as the government could meet the needs of all tribes, voices of dissent like Igboho’s would be less prominent.
Dr. Adeyẹoluwa called upon the government to maintain impartiality in dealing with lawbreakers to prevent the need for agitation from any quarter.
In a related development, the church celebrated the dedication of a multi-million Naira Hall and Suites. The Archbishop of Ibadan Anglican Diocese, The Most Reverend Joseph Akinfenwa, presided over the ceremony, marking its official use for both the church and the general public.
Kolawole Fadayomi, Chairman of the Building Committee, commended the significant contributions of church members, both in cash donations and expertise, which led to the realization of this impressive edifice.
