Religion

Be Faithful, Committed- Islamic Scholar Charges Religious Leaders

By Web News 705

Leadership is a position of responsibility which requires commitment and faithfulness.
The Chief Imam of Odo Ona Elewe Muslim Community, Aminulai Areshingun, stated this at the installation ceremony of eight Muslim faithful held at Liberty Academy Secondary School, Ibadan.
Imam Areshingun, who explained that the installation of the eight faithful was in recognition of their service to God and humanity, charged them to see their exaltation as a call to do more.
Among those installed was a former General manager, positive FM Akure, FRCN, Alhaji Kola Animasaun as Babasale Adini of Odo ona Elewe/Academy Muslim Community
Speaking at the event, Alhaji Animashaun said he was thankful to God almighty for the privilege and honour bestowed on him.
Highlight of the occasion was the presentation of awards to outstanding faithful in the community..
Dignitaries at the occasion were veteran journalists, friends and families of the awardees

Funmilola Obagbayegun

Religion

Islamic Scholar Charges Nigerians On Peaceful Co-existence

By Web News 839

An Ondo based renowned Islamic Scholar, Shiekh Abdulrafiu Ajiboye-Lagbaji has cautioned people against actions or agitations that can threaten corporate existence of Nigeria.

Sheikh Lagbaji who gave the advice in Akure while delivering annual Ramadan Lecture of NASFAT Akure branch, said there were great benefits for Nigeria to remain as one country despite various challenges currently confronting the nation.

Speaking on a topic, “After Every Difficulty comes Relief”, the Scholar noted that the call for Yoruba nation was not the answer to the people’s problems but it would rather compound the suffering of the masses.

Sheikh Lagbaji enjoined Muslims to pray fervently in this holy month of Ramadan to enable them to overcome their individuals difficulties and for Nigeria to conquer her predicaments.

The Chairman of NASFAT Akure branch, Alhaji Sulaiman Bello said the annual ramadan lecture was organized to reawaken spiritual obligations of Muslims during this holy month of ramadan.

In a remark, the Ondo state Commissioner for Lands & Infrastructure, Alhaji Raimi Olayiwola-Aminu, urged nigerians to be more closer to God at this trying period.

The NASFAT Ramadan lecture was witnessed by the Chief Imam of Akureland, Alhaji Abdulhakeem Yayi-Akorede and the APC Acting Chairman in the state, Ade Adetimehin among other dignitaries.

Leke Adegbite

Religion

Promote Peace, Not Violence- Peller Urges Journalists

By Web News 602


A member, representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa federal constituency of Oyo State in the House of Representatives, Hon. Shina Peller, has urged Nigerian journalists to intensify efforts at promoting peace and correcting societal ills in the country.
Hon. Peller stated this while having iftar with some journalists in Ibadan
In a remarks, Hon. Peller emphasized the need for journalists to use all instruments at their disposal to help the government in addressing insecurity and other challenges that the country is battling with.
He said, “As the Fourth Estate of the realm who serves as watchdogs of the society, I implore you to intensify your efforts in helping to correct the societal ills in the country”
“Our country is presently battling with a lot of challenges, and topping the list is insecurity. As journalists, we need to use all the instruments at our disposal to help the government in addressing this.”
Similarly, Hon. Peller advised the journalists to avoid being used irresponsibly and callously by any politician who may want to ride on their influence to fulfil his or political interest or ambition at the detriment of the overall interest of the country.
“As the 2023 general election approaches gradually, you must not allow politicians to use you irresponsibly or callously to fulfil their political ambition or interest at the detriment of the overall interest of our dear country,” he said. “We must not allow ourselves to be used as an instrument for division and violence,” Hon. Peller added.
In the same vein, the federal legislator acknowledged the pivotal role Comrade Adewumi Faniran played in bringing up the annual Shina Peller NUJ Ramadan Lecture/Iftar, adding that it started with him three years ago, and that he (Hon. Peller) will continue to do everything within his capacity to ensure that the program doesn’t go into extinction.

Adewumi Faniran.

Religion

Many religious conflicts are less about God – Don

By Web News 768

A lecturer at the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, University of Ibadan, Professor Afis Oladosu says majority of struggles branded as religious are less about God but for selfish interest.

Professor Oladosu, who is also the Dean Faculty of Arts, University of Ibadan, stated this at the Trenchard Hall while delivering the 489th Inaugural lecture of the institution. 

He said a lot of conflicts being tagged as religious were actually less about the creed or faith and much more about gaining power and material prosperity. 

“Spaces of conflicts around the world commonly branded as religious are actually less about God and more about the preservation of spaces of power and economic survival”.

Professor Oladosu identified promotion of peaceful relationships by government agencies among various ethnic and religious identities and communities as essential for development of the country.

He called on Ministries, Directorates and Agencies, MDAs of government to remove all policies and regulations that constitute infractions to the nation’s constitution especially those that have to do with freedom of religion.

“Is it because I am a Muslim? is being asked in the town, far away from the quietude of the gown. It is being asked in the Nigerian Immigration Office where Muslim women are constantly being told to remove their hijab as a precondition for the issuance of international passports.

Is it because I am a Muslim? was the question Amasa Firdaws asked when she was initially denied the chance to be called to bar simply because she wore Muslim Hijab “.

The don called for the expansion of African studies programme of  University of Ibadan to include Middle Eastern and North African Studies as this would enhance intra- African relationship.

“Indeed, the establishment of a program in Middle Eastern and North African Studies in this part of the world has become a desideratum. Such a program when established here in Ibadan would strengthen intra- African relations and enhance the status of our University as the primus interpares in the sub-saharan region”.

In a remark on the lecture, JAMB Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede said some individuals used multiple identities to pretend to be fighting religious cause.

The well attended lecture had in attendance other dignitaries including Oyo State Deputy Governor,  Engr Rauf Olaiyan, his wife, Professor Amdalat, Aare Musulumi  of  Yorubaland,  Edo and Delta, Alhaji Dawud Akinola and Executive Secretary, Muslim Ummah of Southwest Nigeria, MUSWEN, Professor Muslih Yahya. 

The topic of the inaugural lecture is “Arab-Islamism, Afrabism and Contrapuntal Criticism”.

 Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

Ramadan: Osun Speaker Admonishes Muslims to Pray for Peace

By Web News 532

The Speaker, Osun House of Assembly Mr. Timothy Owoeye has admonished Muslims to use the period of Ramadan to pray for the peace and unity of the country. 

The Speaker in a statement by his Media aide, Kunle Alabi congratulates Muslim faithful for the commencement of the Holy Month of Ramadan saying it should also be a period for people blessed by Allah to remember the needy.

He said the Month of Ramadan should be used to supplicate to Allah for peace to reign in the country.

Mr. Owoeye stressed that there can’t be a better time than now for Muslims to rise up in unison to pray for the healing of the country from the menace of insecurity.

While advising Muslims to use the season as a moment of reflection, prayer and of love-sharing among people not only of their faith alone but also of other faiths, the Speaker urged them to pray for peace and prosperity of Nigeria and Osun state.

Funmi Adekoya

Religion

Ramadan: Gov. Makinde Congratulates Muslims

By Web News 638

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has congratulated Muslims in the state, Nigeria and across the world, on the commencement of the 2021 Ramadan fasting.

The governor also urged Islamic faithful to pray relentlessly for the peace and development of the country during the fasting period.

He specifically asked the Almighty Allah (SWT) to show mercy on the state and Nigeria in general during this season and beyond.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa urges Muslims across the world to embrace piety as demanded of them during the Ramadan fast.

Governor Makinde also prayed the Almighty Allah (SWT) to put an end to insurgency and insecurity which he said has been ravaging the whole country in recent years.

He wished Islamic faithful a successful fasting period, while also praying to God to grant them the strength needed to sustain them throughout the Ramadan.

Adebisi Iyabo

Religion

Ramadan: MMPN Urge Muslims to Adhere to Covid-19 Protocols During Fasting

By Web News 792

As Nigerian Muslims join their counterparts all over the world to begin Ramadan fasting, they have been urged to be moderate and follow Covid-19 protocols while fasting and engaging in other spiritual activities. 

This is contained in a statement in Ibadan by Chairman, Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi.

Alhaji Fasasi said though there is no restriction by government, the traditional activities during Ramadan like Tarawih, Tafsir, group iftar and annual lecture should be observed moderately and in line with Covid-19 protocols so as to prevent the spread of the virus.

He noted that since Ramadan is a month full of blessings, Muslims should use the opportunity to pray fervently to seek Allah’s forgiveness to halt the ravaging Covid-19, which has brought the world to its knees.

He urged the Islamic faithful especially the wealthy ones to remember the less privileged and others that the current economic challenges have affected bearing it in mind that Ramadan is a month of helping the needy. 

Alhaji Fasasi enjoined Muslim philanthropists to take sponsorship of Islamic lectures as a top priority so that Muslims will be able to benefit from such through traditional channels of radio and Television as well as new media platforms.

He admonished Islamic clerics who will be handling such lectures and explanation of the holy Quran to lay emphasis on prevention of the spread of coronavirus, as well as issues of patriotism, peaceful co-existence, and love for one another.

Alhaji Fasasi prayed to Allah to give Nigerian leaders the wisdom and power that will make the country survive the post Covid-19 challenges.

He emphasized that since the compulsory twenty-nine or thirty days fasting is hinged on God’s consciousness, Muslims should endeavor to ensure that their actions and inactions follow the dictates of Allah.

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

Significance Of Ramadan

By Web News 1083

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is observed by Muslims globally.
Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam while others among which are faith (shahada), prayer (salat), alms giving (zakat), fasting (sawm) and pilgrimage (Hajj).
Ramadan is the most significant month in the Islamic calendar and it is the month when the Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Mohammed in which Muslims are expected to fast for 29 to 30 days, depending on the sighting of the moon, in line with Islamic tradition.
During the period, Muslims also try to reconnect with their faith through prayers, reading of Quran and charitable giving, as well as rekindling relationships with friends and family.
Fasting is obligatory for Muslims except for people who are insane, minors, travelers, menstruating women, expectant and nursing mothers as well as old people.
Pregnant and breast-feeding women are expected to make up the missed days after Ramadan.
Last year, there was a total lockdown on religious activities to prevent the sprerad of ravaging corona virus pandemic.
Though there has been ease on religious activities Muslims should still continue to observe necessary protocols during this year, Ramadan as covid-19 is yet to be defeated.
Congregational prayers should continue unabated, observers should ensure that they give space from one another as some mosque management have indicated the praying point for earth Muslim to prevent congestion.
Public gatherings like Ramadan lectures should br avoided except when there are provision to control crowd and ensure physical distance while usage of nose masks should be made compulsory either at mosques or venue of such Ramadan lecture in line with covid-19 protocols.
Crowded gathering associated with if tar banquets which is breaking of fast, should be avoided and consider using individual pre-packaged boxes/servings of food. these can be organized by centralized entities and institutions, which should adhere to physical distancing throughout the whole period.
In alternative to social and public gatherings, which are discouraged, virtual platforms such as television, radio, digital, and social media could be employed to pass messages across to the Muslims during the holy month.
It is important to note that healthy diet and proper nutrition and hydration are vital during the month of Ramadan. People should eat a variety of fresh and unprocessed foods every day and drink plenty of water.
Ramadan is also the month in which Allah opens his doors of mercy, forgiveness and blessings.
So, Muslims should pray fervently to Allah to intervene and eliminate the covid-19 pandemic ravaging the world and intensify efforts in good deeds during the month.
As it is believed that Allah answer prayers with speed during this period as gates of paradise are often open while those for hell are closed, Muslim faithful should take upon themselves to always pray with passion.

Rasheedah Makinde

Religion

RAMADAN: Look Out For Moon From Monday, Sultan Tells Muslim Ummah

By Web News 939

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has directed the Muslim Ummah to look out for the crescent (moon) of Ramadan 1442AH from Monday.
Abubakar gave the directive on Sunday in a statement by Prof. Sambo Junaidu, Chairman, Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto.

“This is to inform the Muslim Ummah that Monday, April 12, which is equivalent to the 29th day of Sha’aban 1442AH shall be the day to look for the new moon of Ramadan 1442AH.

“Muslim are, therefore, requested to start looking for the crescent moon on Monday and report its sighting to the nearest District or Village Head for onward communication to the Sultan,’’ the statement reads.

The Sultan prayed Allah to assist Muslims in the discharge of their religious duty.
Junaidu gave telephone numbers that could be used directly to report the sighting of the new moon to the committee.

The numbers are 08037157100, 07067416900, 08066303077, 08036149757, 08035965322 and 08035945903.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar observed by Muslims worldwide as a month for fasting, prayer, reflection and assisting the needy.

NAN

Religion

Easter Monday: Ibadan Experiences Low Turnout of Funseekers

By Web News 665

Few worship and recreation centres in Ibadan this morning opened as a result of the public holiday earlier declared to mark this year’s Easter Monday.

Easter Monday is observed in the Christian faith to commemorate the meeting of Jesus on the galilee after his resurrection.

Our correspondent who monitored the situation in Ibadan reports that some recreation centres opened with few fun seekers in attendance while worshippers in some of the churches visited use the occasion to evangelise while others organized outreach, retreat as well as praise and worship.

The presbyter, Methodist Church Nigeria, very Reverend Abraham Akinyode said a picnic organized by the church was meant to familiarize with the church members as well as meet Jesus at the galilee.

He stressed the need for government to put an end to incessant killings and religious intolerance which he said were inimical to the peaceful coexistence of Nigerians.

In an interview with Radio Nigeria, two fun seekers at the trans- amusement park, Mr. Akinpelu Idowu and Mr. Johnson Ekong said they consider it needful to use the Easter break to interact with their family members.

Rotimi Famakin

Religion

Exhibit Love, Sacrifice Like Jesus- Gov. Akeredolu Urges Christians

By Web News 695

Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has urged Christians in the state and the country at large to imbibe the teaching of Jesus Christ on love and sacrifice. 

In his Easter message to the people of the state, Governor Akeredolu stated that despite the challenges facing the state and the country, there is a great promise of hope and joy but attainable only through genuine expression of love and sacrifice. 

He describes Easter, as a season of love, compassion, forgiveness and renewed hope in Christ. 

In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Richard Olatunde, Governor Akeredolu says this time demands more love, sacrifice, prayers and a renewed hope for a better nation. 

He enjoins Nigerians to join hands to build a prosperous nation through love and sacrifice and live the values of discipline, perseverance and obedience which Jesus Christ demonstrated during His stay on earth.

Olorunferanmi Odofin

Religion

CCII New Executive Holds Thanksgiving Service at Molete Baptist Church

By Web News 870

Special thanksgiving service amidst singing and dancing has been held at Molete Baptist Church, Challenge, Ibadan by family and well wishers of the newly elected executive members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, CCII.

In company of the CCII President General, Prince Oluyemisi Adeaga was his predecessor, Chief Yemi Soladoye and other eminent personalities of Ibadan extraction home and abroad.

In his admonition, the Minister in charge of Molete Baptist Church, Reverend Edward Alabi, charged the new President General to lead with the fear of God by seeking for His wisdom, knowledge and understanding just like the biblical Solomon.

Reverend Alabi, who prayed for successful tenure of office for Prince Oluyemi Adeaga, commended the leadership prowess of the past executive of Chief Soladoye and as well congratulated them on successful election.

Speaking earlier, Chief Yemi Soladoye said the CCII received the blessing of Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji, who believed in the power of God to go to Mosque and Church first for thanksgiving before ending it in his palace later in the week.

Chief Yemi Soladoye appreciated God for being his guide and helps during his tenure of office and prayed that He shall as well abide with the new Executive of Prince Adeaga.

The new Executive led by Prince Oluwayemi Adeaga was elected last Friday for tenure of two years.

Adewumi Faniran

Religion

Nigeria will rise above its challenges – Reverend Edward Alabi

By Web News 789

Easter services are ongoing in churches to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ after three days in the grave.

At Molete Baptist Church, Ibadan, the resurrection service was marked by special renditions and prayers as believers adorned in colourful attires engage in dancing and rejoicing.

In his sermon, entitled Efficacy of the Blood of Jesus, the Shepherd in charge, Reverend Edward Alabi assured Christians that the blood that was shed several years back was still efficacious.

Reverend Alabi charged all to continue to rejoice as their debts had been fully paid for by Jesus on the cross of Calvary.

The clergyman enjoined Nigerians to be prayerful and believe that the present challenges confronting the Nation would soon be a thing of the past.

Adewumi Faniran

Religion

Osun Speaker Tasks Nigerians on Prayer for Peace

By Web News 718

The Speaker, Osun House of Assembly, Mr. Timothy Owoeye has urged Christians to explore the spiritual opportunity derived from Easter to pray for the peace.

The Speaker in a statement by his Media Secretary, Kunle Alabi while congratulating Christians on successfully going through the 40 day Lenten period which climaxed with the celebration of Easter, said the country would overcome most of his challenges soonest. 

Mr. Owoeye, said with various challenges facing the country, Nigerians must use every available opportunity to seek the face of God for peace to reign.

He stated that what the country needed at this time were intercessory prayers for God to continuously stabilize it.

The Speaker advised Christians and people of other faith to supplicate God to assist the country in critical areas of needs such as insecurity, hunger, unemployment, decayed infrastructure, corruption which had all held Nigeria down.

Funmi Adekoya

OYHA Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin
Religion

Reminisce on Christ Greatest Sacrifice, Oyo Speaker Charges Christians

By Web News 609

The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin says Easter is the time to remember the sacrifice made by Jesus Christ and his unconditional love for humanity.

The Speaker therefore called on Nigerians and indeed Christians to renew their faith in God through Jesus Christ so that his death and resurrection would not be in vain. 

Hon Ogundoyin gave the charge in his 2021 Easter message to Nigerians.

According to him, it is the season of rebirth; hence people must renew their faith and imbibe the teachings of the risen Saviour.

“Easter is one of the most important days for Christians across the world. To this end, I am wishing all Nigerians a blessed 2021 Easter. Congratulations! Jesus Christ died so that we could live. Let us endeavor to shy away from sins and prepare ourselves to be worthy of Christ, the Saviour. Our sins have been washed away through the blood of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary”

“Though the country is still going through difficult times, all we need to do is to use this period of Easter celebration to pray for a better and more prosperous nation. Oyo State also requires our prayers as Governor Seyi Makinde continues to paddle the canoe of the Pacesetter state”, Hon Ogundoyin said

He said Easter is usually a period of solemn celebration and reflection, stressing that the forty day lent that preceded it is a time for spiritual sacrifice and personal discipline. 

Mr Ogundoyin, who urged all Nigerians to see light at the end of the tunnel, maintained that the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ brought hope and eternal life to people.

He warned Nigerians to desist from promoting issues and activities that were divisive, and called for love, unity and togetherness among the citizenry.

Kehinde Mosope

Religion

Christians Mark Easter Sunday in High Spirit

By Web News 744

Christian worshipers in Ibadan were in high spirit celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ as Easter Sunday is marked worldwide.

 Our correspondent who monitored the situation at Agbowo, Mokola, Ojoo, Dugbe, Apata and Iwo Road, reports that the worshippers were in various churches to mark the all-important event in the Christian calendar.

 At the Methodist Church Nigeria, Eko Tedo Dugbe, Saint James Cathedral Oke Bola, Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Agbara and the Gospel Faith Mission International Agbowo, worshippers rendered songs that reflected the resurrection of Jesus and renewed hope of better future.

In an interview, the pastor in charge, Region Eleven of the Gospel Faith Mission International, Pastor Ademola Akangbe said the resurrection of Jesus Christ brought hope to the Christians and all who are ready to embrace Jesus.

The cleric, who described Jesus’ sacrifice as a mark of commitment to humanity, used the occasion to call on government to remain committed to the masses through the provision of infrastructures.

 Speaking in the same vein, the Presbyter, Methodist Church of Nigeria, The Very Reverend Abraham Akinyode, stressed the need for government to put an end to incessant killings and religious intolerance, which he said were inimical to the peaceful coexistence of Nigerians.

  Rotimi Famakin

Religion

Let’s us remain optimistic about current situation in Nigeria – Gov. Abiodun

By Web News 573

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has called on Nigerians, especially residents of the state, to embrace peace, love and unity as the world celebrates Easter.

In his Easter message, Governor Abiodun urged Nigerians to avail themselves of what the resurrection of Jesus Christ symbolizes and live in peace.

Governor Abiodun, who noted that Nigeria was facing some challenges, implored people to emulate the love Jesus Christ showed while being crucified, in order to lift the country to a greater height.

He pointed out that the resurrection of Jesus had indeed shown that the country had a great hope to become a powerful nation and

expressed optimism that Nigeria would regain its position among the comity of nations.

While wishing Christians a wonderful Easter celebration, the Governor urged them to continue to pray for the country to overcome socio economic challenges.

Bolanle Adesida

Religion

Easter: CAN Admonishes Nigerians, Preaches Hope

By Web News 523

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has encouraged Nigerians to be hopeful as God will put a stop to kidnappings, killings among other social vices in the country.

In an Easter message, titled ‘Rejoice in Hope: All shall be well’, CAN advises Nigerians to exercise patience in troubled times and continue in fervent prayers.

The religious body said “He that rolled away the stone from the grave shall roll away insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, herdsmen’s attacks, ritual killing, armed robbery, unemployment and other challenges we are facing presently in this nation, in the name of Jesus Christ”.

According to a statement issued in Abuja by CAN President, Rev. Samson Ayokunle, “Though we have many challenges in the nation today, ranging from different types of insecurity to social and economic challenges, I urge all the children of God to rejoice in hope. We must not be disillusioned as the disciples were when Jesus was arrested, crucified and buried.

“This is the time for us to exercise patience in tribulations and to continue instantly in prayer.”

Ayokunle also pleaded with Christians to do their best to touch other lives positively.

pmparrot

Religion

Easter: Gov. Makinde Tasks Christians on Fidelity to Jesus

By Web News 603

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has felicitated with Christians in the state and around the world on the occasion of the 2021 Easter celebration.

The governor also called on Christians in the spirit of the season to continue to be their brother’s keepers and to forgive others.

A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Taiwo Adisa expresses gratitude to God for sparing the lives of residents of the state to witness the Easter season.

He charged Christians in the state not to take lightly the price Christ paid for their salvation and to continue to remain connected to Jesus Christ.

Iyabo Adebisi

Religion

Good Friday: PFN Urges Christians to Intensify Prayer For Nigeria

By Web News 457

Worried by the growing insecurity in the country, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), has called on Christians across the nation to be more vigilant and pray more for Nigeria before, during and after the Easter Celebrations.

In a statement in Ibadan, PFN President, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, said it had become imperative for the government to direct its arsenal towards stemming the increasing cases of killings, raping, kidnappings and insurgency among others, in the country.

Bishop Wale Oke also tasked the Federal Government to evolve a security mechanism that will further ensure the protection of lives and property of Nigerians.

As a result, he admonished that in addition to whatever security arrangements government might put in place during the celebration, Christians and other Nigerians should arm themselves with prayers and vigilance.

Bishop Oke noted that the importance of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ must not be in vain, calling on the populace to be living peaceably with the fear of God

“The essence of the Easter Celebration will be meaningful if we truly love one another. Our Lord Jesus Christ died and resurrected for you and I to gain eternity. All perpetrators of evil in our country should repent before it is too late. Jesus does not want any sinner to perish in his/her sins” he further counselled

Through this, the PFN President further stressed, the solid foundation of a new Nigeria devoid of acrimony and rancor, would be in place

Meanwhile, the renowned cleric has equally enjoined Christians in the country to continue to be law-abiding all the time, insisting that violence would always produce negative effects, stressing, “As Christians, learn to show love instead of hatred. It’s through love that we can conquer the world. Love is the most powerful tool for us, to evangelize”

PR/Kehinde

Religion

Low Turnout at Worship Centres Marks Good Friday in Parts of Ibadan

By Web News 898

Worship centers in Ibadan recorded low turnout as Good Friday is observed across the world.

Good Friday is observed by Christians to acknowledge the trial, suffering, crucifixion and the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Christian adherents commemorate the day by acting the out the event through carrying of the cross and accepting to be beating a rally.

In Ibadan, the situation was a total deviation from the usual annual event as most of the churches visited only held their services at different period of the day.

 At Saint James Cathedral, Oke Bola, few members were present during two separate services to mark the day.

 Radio Nigeria observed that songs rendered reflected the death of Jesus on the cross for the redemption of mankind

The situation was not different at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Ekotedo where the members converged to commemorate the day.

In an interview the presbyter of the church, Very Reverend Abraham Akinyode said Jesus demonstrated selflessness not by meeting the needs of people but by dying on the cross.

Very Reverend Akinyode used the occasion to lament the spate of kidnapping for ransom and attacks on farmland by herdsmen, saying failure of government to address the crises might lead to famine.

Very Reverend Akinode appealed to political leaders in the country to be selfless and initiate policies that would alleviate the suffering of the masses.

Rotimi Famakin

Religion

Good Friday: Let us serve God, humanity through sacrificial love – Clergy

By Web News 848

The minister in charge of Molete Baptist Church, Challenge Ibadan,The Reverend Edward Alabi has asked Christians to rededicate their lives to the service of God and humanity through sacrifice and love.

The Rev. Alabi was of the opinion that the crucifixion of Jesus Christ was not a pleasant experience as charges against him, including mingling with sinners and preaching on Sabbath day and against payment of taxes, among other reasons were trumped up and baseless.

Restating Jesus experience on the cross of Calvary, the clergyman noted that the day the crucifixion took place, now referred to as Good Friday was indeed a sad and agonizing one going by the manner in which he died.

The Reverend Alabi queried that if Jesus could sacrifice so much for man to have abundant, fulfilled life, it then behoved Christians to appreciate Him by living a life of love, tolerance, sacrifice and service to God and humanity.

He said Judas did not have the in depth knowledge of the ministry of Jesus Christ which was rather spiritual than physical, and that was why he exposed him to those who crucified him.

Adewumi Faniran

Religion

President Buhari Rejoices with Nigerians on Easter Celebration

By Web News 969

President Muhammadu Buhari rejoices with Christians on the occasion of this year’s Easter celebration.

The President’s felicitation is contained in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, 

He recalls that a year ago, celebrations were somewhat subdued, as the nation battled the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic.

President Buhari praises Christians for their resilience and understanding throughout the lockdown period, but urges them to celebrate this year’s Easter cautiously. 

The statement says he appreciates the sacrifices of doctors, nurses and other frontline health workers, who have made the difference in saving lives and ensuring the reduction of the spread of the virus.

President Buhari expresses gratitude to Nigerians, who have religiously adhered to various interventions to curb the spread of Covid-19. 

As Christians celebrate Easter, the President says it is an opportunity to renew hope and faith, show love and appreciation to one another and not to despair, no matter the challenges of the period.

The President says the government will continue to ensure that the weak, the poor and the underprivileged are not abandoned.

He explains that the government has reached out with palliative care, even amid dwindling resources; the government has tried its utmost to provide support to families and businesses affected by the effect of the pandemic. 

The President commends law enforcement and military personnel, who continue to confront evil-minded individuals through the darkest of nights to keep us safe.

He says he is convinced that the new resolve within the security personnel to make sure that insecurity in the country becomes part of our history will come to pass. 

The President advises Nigerians not to allow the antics of a few mischief mongers to fragment the unity and faith that the vast majority of citizens of the country cherish and believe in.

In the spirit of Easter, the spirit of Faith, the spirit of Belief, and the spirit of Hope, the President says Nigerians are better and stronger as one nation under God.

Abdullah Bello

Religion

Clerics Urges Christians to Imbibe Lessons of Lenten Season

By Web News 622

As today commemorates Good Friday and the end of Lenten season which goes along with the forty days fast in Christendom, Christian faithful have been advised to allow the lessons they learnt during the period to always reflect in their daily lives.

This formed the focal points of a cross section of clerics in Ado-Ekiti who spoke on the significance of Good Friday, as captured by Correspondent Anthony Ojo.

Religion

Significance of Easter Monday

By Web News 1555

Easter is a very significant date within Christendom which represents the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the tomb on the third day, after his crucifixion.

It is the fulfilled prophecy of the messiah who was to be persecuted, die for the sins of the world, and rise on the third day.

It symbolizes the opening of heaven with the gift of eternal life to everyone

However, Easter Monday is usually a day and holiday that follows Easter Sunday to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Jesus was said to have appeared to believers on Monday after his resurrection and taught his disciples what was expected of every believer and the need to operate a giving ministry.

Most western nations observe the holiday to visit recreation centers, families, orphanages and the poor around them.

Many Christians worldwide, especially the orthodox denominations celebrate Easter Monday with special church services including picnic and bazaar.

As the world remembers the gift of Jesus Christ to mankind during this period that corona virus ravages most countries of the world, it is high time every one rose to emulate the spirit of giving as taught by the Lord Jesus Christ.

With the economic situation in the country, extending the hand of love to the physically challenged, street children, the elderly and many more would go a long way in alleviating people’s sufferings

The message of Easter Monday is encouraging family bond; this will inspire individuals and the society to develop a culture of love and care for one another.

As most parts of the world are battling with the pandemic and relevant authorities are finding solution to curbing the spread, the season should be celebrated with a virtual gathering with family and friends and well wishers in compliance with covid-19 guidelines.

The time has come for everybody to rise up to serve humanity by showing love and compassion to one another just as god did without looking back, giving out his only begotten son, Jesus Christ to the world.

Jesus Christ died and live for the love of humanity therefore mankind should reciprocate his love by living peacefully with one another irrespective of tribe religion or political class

Similarly, it behoves on all and sundry to understand that there is unity in diversity, Nigerians should put in concerted efforts to live in harmony.

It is pertinent for government to do more on empowerment programmes that could ease the level of poverty in the society.

As the economic situation bites harder politicians should see the season as a period to support people and show them love as reflection of the season.

Showing God’s love to humanity begins with having a tender heart as demonstrated by the Lord Jesus while on earth.

Taiwo Akinola