Religion

Significance and Lessons of Good Friday

By Web News 948

This day, far away on a skull shaped hill called Golgotha, in Jerusalem, stood an old rugged cross.

 it was a cross the world so much despised, being an emblem of reproach, suffering and shame.

 Yet, it was on that same cross; a great king who did not commit any offense was crucified to atone for the sin of humanity.

 Not minding the shame, this king, Jesus Christ, left his glory and endured that cross for the sake of humanity. 

 Apparently, the event of that day was nothing short of a horrible, unimaginable, inexplicable, humiliating and worst of treatment meted out to Jesus Christ till he breathed his last on that gloomy day which today is being remembered as Good Friday.

 It was the most gruesome killing ever recorded in the history of mankind. 

The Roman soldiers mocked Jesus, lacerated his flesh with lashes, smote his head with a reed, placed on it crown of thorns and nailed him to the cross. 

Darkness enveloped the entire land as blood flowed from his head to the feet with groans of pain, anguish and sorrow mingled with love.

Though, so dark a day it was, yet so good, as the wrath of God against the sins of men, met with mercy at the cross, demonstrating the peak of God’s love for a world that discountenanced him, and willingness to forgive, even the most despicable among men.

By this sacrifice, the ultimate price of forgiveness for humanity was totally paid, the righteousness of God was vindicated and man was reconciled to God.  

Light conquered darkness and sin was conquered by love.

 Satan and death became vanquished, the power of sin subdued, and a new chapter was opened in man’s relationship with God.

 Man regained freedom and the hope of eternal life

Thus, the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ unarguably became the boast and glory of the Christian faith.

 Good Friday is also considered “good” by Christians because as terrible as that day was, it paved the way for eternal life through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which was three days after his death.

 Considering what the crucifixion of Jesus Christ symbolized, it therefore behoves on Christian faithful and the entire human race to have a deep reflection on how the message of the cross can be applied to save the nation from the challenges bedeviling it.

 Leaders in all sectors of national life should emulate the heart of love Jesus Christ demonstrated despite the agony of the cross, to see their position as an opportunity to deliver the masses from incessant suffering, occasioned by socio-economic and political upheavals.

 Just as Jesus forgave all, individuals, families, friends, aggrieved members of political parties and even world leaders should use the occasion of the Good Friday let go of all offences and forgive one another just as Christ did to mankind.

 If God did not spare his only son so that man could be restored, then, every Nigerian should forsake all manners of sin and live as a good ambassador of Christ for positive transformation in the society.

 Only then, can the nation witness the much desired peace, joy, stability, harmony and blessings which God intended for humanity.

Olaitan Adeitan

Religion

FG declares Friday, Monday public holiday for Easter celebration

By Web News 1423

The Federal Government has declared Friday 2nd and Monday 5th April 2021, Public Holidays to mark this year’s FG declares Friday, Monday public holiday for Easter celebration

In a statement, Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, who urged Christians to emulate the attributes of forgiveness, kindness, humility, love, peace and patience, which were demonstrated by Jesus Christ .

He called on them to use the occasion of this year’s Easter Celebration to pray for the Peace, Unity, and Progress of our country.
Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola assured that the Federal Government will leave no stone unturned in dealing decisively with the spate of kidnapping, armed banditry and other crimes and criminality being perpetrated by enemies of the country in parts of Nigeria.

While wishing Christians both at home and abroad a happy and peaceful Easter Celebration, Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola called on Nigerians to join hands with the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Administration in its determination to make life more meaningful for all.

FRCN Abuja

Religion

National Judicial Council: CAN President Frowns At Selection Process

By Web News 676

The president of the christian association of nigeria,CAN, the reverend Samson Ayokunle has frowned at the recent selection of appeal court jugdes by the national judicial council.
This, the CAN President noted was skewed in favour of a particular ethnic group in the country.

The Reverend Ayokunle made this known at the thanksgiving service for the newly elected 7th president of the pentecostal fellowship of nigeria,bishop francis wale oke held at the precious Cornerstone University, Ibadan.
The CAN president explained that favouring a particular ethnic group or religion with national appointments was capable of polarizing the nation which was one of the reasons for agitation by some groups calling for secession.
The Reverend Ayokunle also called for adherence to the rule of law by the kwara state government in tackling the issue of the hijab crisis in the state.
He ,however ,urged the new pfn president to brace up for the challenges ahead,noting that God’s guidance and wisdom would see him through.
In a remark ,Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde accompanied by his wife and the Deputy governor solicited for the prayers and support of the church to succeed in the developmental stride embarked upon by his administration in the state.
Governor makinde while rejoicing with the state for having its three prominent sons holding the leadership of CAN,PFN AND CAC,urged christian faithful to get more involved in electioneering processes.
In a remark,the newly elected president of pentecostal fellowship of nigeria , the bishop wale oke while thanking god for bestowing on him the new post,admonished christians not to retaliate injustice with violence but always preach love and unity.
The Bishop also received an award on outstanding leadership from CAN.
The Olubadan Of Ibadan,Oba Saliu Adetunji also graced the occasion.


Jeffrey Ahonmisi

Religion

CAN Visits Radio Nigeria, Oko, As Part Of Palm Sunday Activities

By Web News 847


Hundreds of Members of Christian Association of Nigeria,CAN, Oko , Surulere Local Government areas of Oyo have stormed the premises of Radio Nigeria Ogo-Ilu FM to pray for the upliftment of the station.
The visit was part of activities of the Christian Association Palm Sunday procession.
Chairman of the Association, Reverend Thomas Kolade said their presence at the broadcasting station was to pray for Radio Nigeria, Oko community, Surulere Local government, Oyo State, Nigeria as a whole for peace and unity to reign.
The cleric also prayed for Radio Nigeria to retain it’s pride of place as flagship of broadcasting.
Welcoming the Christian body on behalf of the management, Head of Engineering Services, Ogo-Ilu fm, Engineer Femi Olakanmi thanked them for the gesture and gave assurance that Radio Nigeria would always strive to uplift the people and unite the nation.
The People in their numbers marched round the nook and crannies of Oko chanting “Hosannah” to the Lord.

Adedayo Adelowo

Religion

Cleric Calls For Lasting Solution To Incessant Abductions in the Country

By Web News 539

government has been told to find lasting solution to the incessant kidnap for ransom and killings of Nigerians by bandits and terrorists.
the cleric in charge of sacred Cherubim and Seraphim Church, Adegbite Parish, Oke bola, Ibadan, his eminence, Most Elder apostle Olusegun Ogunkoya gave the advice while speaking with Radio Nigeria on the significance of Palm Sunday.
the cleric said Nigeria is blessed with numerous human and natural resources to make the country great adding that the desired national development cannot be achieved in the atmosphere of fear, anxiety and crises.
Most Elder Apostle Ogunkoya who said the young colt lose for Jesus to ride during entry to Jerusalem symbolised freedom obedience and humility said nigerian leaders should liberate themselves from selfish desire and prioritize the wish of the masses.
in a sermon entitled “Jesus has the need of it”, to commemorate the day, the preacher who is also a senior superintendent in the church, Solomon Komolafe bemoaned the abysmal crave for materialism in the christendom as well as high level of unemployment and called for sustained efforts to combat the numerous challenges affecting the progress of Nigeria.

Rotimi Famakin

Religion

Clerics Charge Faithful On Humility

By Web News 779

Christian faithful celebrated the palm Sunday with special services in various worship centres across the state.
Clerics during the services premised their messages on the selfless and committed life of the Lord Jesus Christ.
In Akoko area of the state , faithful hanged palm fronds in their houses and cars while entrances to many churches were decorated with the plant .
At CAC Oke Agbe Akoko , Pastor Gabriel Agbaje oluwadamilare Aje quarters okeagbe Akoko northwest local government of the state pastor Gabriel Agbaje asked Nigerians to embrace legacies of Jesus Christ which were love , Service and sacrifice.
At Ore town , Evangelist Ezekiel oladimeji of Celestial Church of Christ charged christians to imbibe the life of humility, love and tolerance as exemplified by Jesus Christ and asked the leaders to show more love and sacrifice for their followers.
Also, the Shepherd of Celestial church of Christ in Akure , Prophet Omosehin Obebe called on Christians to live a life of positive impact on the society to draw people to Christ.
Pastor Mayowa Owoyemi of Christ Apostolic Church, CAC, FUTA , Akure however warned individuals igniting religious unrest in the nation to desist as there was no alternative to peace for Nigeria to move forward.

Abiodun Akinluwa

Religion

Christians Observe Covid-19 Protocols During Palm Sunday Celebration in Ibadan

By Web News 922


The customary procession usually held by christians to mark the palm sunday was today not held in Ibadan.
our correspondent who went round the metropolis reports that the suspension of the carnival-like procession was in adherence to the covid-19 protocols but however some churches displayed the palm fronts with cross sign in their premises and inside the cathedral.
At various services monitored,Christians observe covid protocols during Palm Sunday celebration in IbadanChristians observe covid protocols during Palm Sunday celebration in Ibadan the Worshippers sang songs of victory with palm fronts in their hands and neck to herald the palm Sunday service as messages from the pulpits centered on Love, peace,Kindness and selflessness towards one another
Reverend father Mark Shimave of St. Gabriel Catholic Church, Mokola urged nigerians to shun inhumane acts and be kind to one another.
In the same vein, the priest in charge of St Mathias Anglican church, Orogun ibadan, Venerable Samuel Olawoyin, admonished political leaders to see themselves as God’s vessels and rule with fear of God.
Pastor Timothy Adeniji of Great Nation House, Sango, Church advised nigerians to discard the temptation of ethnic separation saying there is blessing in unity.
Pastor Adeniji also called on political gladiators not to heat up the polity.

Dayo Adu

Religion

Palm Sunday: Cleric Charges Nigerians To Be Steadfsat Amidst Challenges

By Web News 725

The Vicar Saint Anne’s Anglican Church, Molete, Ibadan ,The Venerable Adewale Sanda, has advised Nigerians not to be discouraged from Serving God despite all the evils bedevilling Nigeria.
The Venerable Sanda gave the advice in a sermon in Ibadan during the Palm Sunday service held in the church.
He said despite the tribulations confronting Jesus Christ he continued to serve God till he died.
The Vicar noted that though the situation of things in the nation was not encouraging,Nigerians should be hopeful of a better tomorrow.
The Venerable Sanda called for concerted effort of the goverments at all levels to fight the crimes in Nigeria.
Palm Sunday also called Passion week in the Christian tradition is the the first day of the holy week and the Sunday before Easter
commemorating Jesus Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
Highlight of the service was the waving of palm fronds by the congregation who sang and danced round the church’s premises with the boys’ brigade drumming and blowing the trumpet.

Morenike Tony-Esan

Religion

Keep those in authority in constant prayers – Reverend Ayokunle

By Web News 680

The President, Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Reverend Samson Ayokunle has called on religious leaders to always assist those in position of authority with prayers for them to overcome challenges confronting the country.

Reverend Ayokunle who made the call in Abeokuta shortly after a meeting with Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun urged religious leaders not to feel unconcerned about happenings in the country.

While commending Ogun state government for maintaining peace in the state, Reverend Ayokunle said the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria was glad with the way and manner the governor was able to engender peace among different religions and ethnic groups in the state.

The religious leader urged the state government to continue to embark on developmental projects that would add value to the living standard of people.

He gave the assurance that religious leaders in the country would continue to partner government at all levels in rendering humanitarian services to the less privileged in the society.

Bolanle Adesida

Religion

Prayer is also vital for national healing -Rev. Akanji

By Web News 692


Christians have been urged to intensify prayer for divine intervention in Nigeria to overcome its numerous challenges.


The General Overseer, World Outreach Revival Centre, WOREC, Reverend Dr Peter Akanji stated this during the 7th Life and Power Thanksgiving Service and 4th Convocation of World Changers Bible College of the church held in Ibadan.

Reverend Akanji said Nigeria the country was currently confronted by numerous socioeconomic challenges such as kidnapping, corruption and right abuses, hence the need for prayers.
The cleric noted that intense prayer was vital for Nigeria and its leaders to over the present cyclic crises.


Rev. Akanji explained that graduands of the church’s Bible college had gone through the rigours of doctrinal training while new intake would undergo various years of theological studies to assume leadership role in church administration.
Speaking on the theme of the conference, ‘Supernatural Shift’, the guest speaker, Prophet Funso Akande, pointed out that divine elevation can only be achieved when an individual is closer to God.
High point of the event was the administration of oath on the graduands, presentation of gifts, and special song ministration by the church’s choir.


Rotimi Famakin

Religion

Sultan Declares Monday 1st Day of Sha’aban 1442AH

By Web News 681

The Sultan of Sokoto and President General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Saad Abubakar the third has declared Monday the fifteenth of March as the first day of the Islamic month of Shaaban, one thousand four hundred and forty two years after Hijira.

A statement signed by the Chairman Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs Sultanate Council, Sokoto State, Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, Wazirin Sokoto, says this followed a report by the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee in conjunction with National Moon Sighting Committee confirming the non-sighting of the new moon across the country after the thirtieth of Rajab which marked the beginning of Shaaban.

Nasir Malali

Religion

Mothering Sunday: Women Tasked on Exemplary Lifestyle

By Web News 1000

A preacher at St Anne’s Church, Molete, Ibadan, Mrs Sola Fakolade has called on Mothers to show good examples to their children.

She made the call while delivering a sermon to commemorate this year’s Mothering Sunday.

Mrs Fakolade, while speaking on the roles of women in making a Christian home as a mother and as a wife, explained that children should be trained to be disciplined and to read the words of God always.

She also noted that a Christian home should be a happy one devoid of exchange of blows.

Mrs Fakolade admonished wives not to compare their husbands with any other man, but rather they should be submissive to their husbands.

She also advised mothers not to allow the social media to rob them of their homes.

Mothering Sunday which has its origin in United Kingdom and Ireland is celebrated annually and globally on the fourth day of Lent.

It is traditionally a religious day in which children, especially daughters return to their mothers and mother churches for a special service known as going -Mothering.

Highlight of the service was the distribution of gifts to mothers.

Esan

Religion

FOMWAN Tasks Parents on Responsive Child Upbringing

By Web News 928

Stakeholders have stressed the need to re-examine family life from external influences that had been undermining it in the name of civilization.

These were the submission of stakeholders at the 10th year annual conference of Federation of Muslin Women Association of Nigeria FOMWAN in Oka land, Ondo State.

Speaking on the theme, Family Life in Islam; issues and Challenges in a Dynamic Society, the Olubaka of Oka Land, Oba Yusuf Adebori Adeleye stressed that the family played a pivotal roles in the society hence the need to protect it.

Oba Adeleye said that all hand must be on deck to transforming the nation to a better society.

He assured that the traditional institution would do its best to ensure the society is a better place.

In his address the chairman of the occassion, member house of representative, Mr Ade Adeogun emphasised that the current challenges of insecurity bedeviling the society is as a result of failure of the family .

He however called on government to find a lasting solution to the rate of kidnapping 

Similarly, the Chief Imam of Supare Akoko, who is also the secretary of leagues of imams in Ondo State, Alhaji Akerele Abdulrasheed and the Chief Imam of Oka Land, Alhaji Abubakar Isa commended FOWMAN for its programmes at building a better society.

Earlier the state president of FOWMAN, Alhaja Aminat Akinpelu stressed the need for parents to be alive to their responsibilities of training their child well and cautioned them against societal ills .

Alhaja Akinpelu charged men to be alive to their responsibility as breadwinners of the family.

In an interview, a former Amirah of FOMWAN in Oka Land, Alhaja Nafisat Yissa urged women to make the training of their children a priority for them to represent the family well.

Olufisoye Adenitan .

Religion

Gov. Makinde Donates 18-Seater Bus To Ibadan Central Mosque

By Web News 997

Governor ‘Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has donated an eighteen seater bus to Ibadan Central Mosque.

While donating the bus at the Central Mosque, Oja-Oba, Governor Makinde emphasized that promotion of religious harmony remained his watchword.

The governor, who was represented by his Special Assistant on Islamic Affairs , Alhaji Abdul-Rasheed Abdul-Azeez said the decision to donate the vehicle was in line with his campaign promises to provide enabling environment for the indigenes and residents of Oyo State, irrespective of religion and ethnicity.

He said the new vehicle would go a long way in helping to promote the propagation of Islam in the state.

While presenting the bus to the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheik Abdul-Ganiyy AbuBakr Agbotomokekere, the governor’s representative said Engr Makinde was appreciative of the prayers of the Muslim community in the State.

He noted that the Chief Imam and the Alfas have a big role to play in ensuring that peace continues to reign in the State.

“Oyo State Government needs the consistent support of religious leaders to ensure peace, harmonious living and development”.
“In an environment where there is no unity there cannot be peace. Religious leaders must continue to preach peace and harmonious co-existence in their sermons”.

Responding, Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheik Abdul-Ganiyy AbuBakr Agbotomokekere appreciated the governor for always having the interest of the people at heart .

The  Imam also prayed for the  success of the present administration in the State.

PR/ Ridwan Fasasi.

Religion

Let’s support Governor Makinde to succeed – Shaikh Busairi

By Web News 792

The Secretary-General, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, NSCIA, Oyo State chapter, Shaikh Salaudeen Busairi, has urged religious leaders in the state not to destroy the existing peace in the state because of their selfish gains.

He stated this during a courtesy visit paid by the Council to the Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Islamic Affairs, Imam Abdul Rasheed Abdul-Azeez in Ibadan.

Shaikh Busairi said that Governor Makinde has never been found wanting in maintaining good relationship with Muslims, even though he is a Christian, admonishing religious leaders not to allow religious sentiment to separate them.

He added that there should be mutual cooperation among all religions in the state and appealed to some elders who he said always hide under the canopy of religion to fan embers of discord among Muslims to have a re-think.

Shaikh Busairi commended Governor Makinde for declaring Public Holiday on, Hijirah, an Islamic calendar year and for celebrating the Maolud Nabiy as governor of the state.

In a remark, the Special Assistant to Governor Makinde on Islamic Affairs, Imam Abdulrasheed Abdul-Azeez solicited the support of all religious leaders to join hands in moving the state forward.

Iyabo Adebisi

Religion

Osinbajo to PFN: Christians Are Purveyors Of Justice, Voices Of Peace

By Web News 751

Conveys President Buhari’s congratulatory message to outgoing PFN President.

VP thankful for solidarity visits that “encouraged me”, honoured with award.

At a defining moment in the history of the country, the church must stand as the light of the nation, and Christians as the purveyors of justice and voices of peace, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Professor Osinbajo gave the admonition on Wednesday at the 16th Biennial Delegate Conference of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, held at the Michael Okpara Square in Enugu, Enugu State.

Speaking on the theme of the conference “The Unquenchable Light”, Professor Osinbajo said “we must bear this gospel of Jesus Christ knowing that it is the beacon of hope and succour for our nation. As bearers of the gospel we are the reconcilers-in-chief.”

According to the Vice President, “we are the salt to the wounds of a nation, we are the voices of peace and unity where division and strife have arisen. We are the purveyors of justice, for all of those who are disempowered. The good news is that this light is unquenchable.”

Explaining the point, the Vice President said “what is this light? It is the power of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who came to this world to pay the price for our sins so that we can attain eternal life in peace and joy. This gospel is the power of God for the healing and transformation of men and nations.”

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. It is the Wisdom of God,” Professor Osinbajo added quoting the Scriptures.

The Vice President had earlier conveyed the felicitations of President Muhammadu Buhari to the outgoing PFN President, Reverend Felix Omobude on the successful and glorious completion of his tenure in office and congratulated the incoming President, Bishop Francis Wale Oke.

Professor Osinbajo also thanked the out-going President, Reverend Omobude for his invaluable service to the PFN especially in the manner he handled the affairs of the body “with impeccable integrity, fatherly understanding, maturity and Godly insight.”

On the stewardship of the outgoing PFN leadership, Professor Osinbajo said “under your able leadership and in collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria led by our brother, Reverend Dr. Supo Ayokunle, I received several solidarity visits. I am eternally indebted to you for those visits which greatly strengthened and encouraged me.”

Commending the smooth transition in the leadership of the PFN, Professor Osinbajo said “I must commend the smooth electoral process leading to the emergence of the President and his deputy unopposed.”

“This is as it should be. The PFN certainly has a lot to teach us, politicians. We pray that the Lord will give this executive good success in Jesus name,” he said.

In acknowledgment of his stand and support for the Christian faith and exemplary service to humanity, the PFN conferred on the Vice President a special award of the Defender of Faith.

Accepting the award, the Vice President thanked the PFN for the recognition, noting that “there can be no more coveted preferment than that conferred by one’s brethren,” and adding in prayer that “you all will receive not just honour from men here on earth but in the end also from the Lord God Almighty, in Jesus name.”

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State also received the PFN award of the Defender of Faith at the event.

Aside from Bishop Wale Oke, who was elected as PFN President, Archbishop John Praise Daniel, the Presiding Archbishop of the Dominion Chapel International Churches was also elected Vice President.

The Vice President who had attended the Federal Executive Council meeting before traveling to Enugu yesterday, returned to Abuja last night.

Laolu Akande,

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity,

Office of the Vice President. 4th March 2021.

Religion

Cleric Advocates Alms Giving

By Web News 650

Pastor Adeolu Afolabi of Revealed Word of God Global Ministry, Ogbomoso has emphasized the essence of almsgiving among Christians.

The cleric made the call during a sermon at the church premises.

Pastor Afolabi said parts of mandates of Christians was to give out to the needy, noting that Christ, the reason for Christianity was a giver.

“The Lord our God is a giver, so also we should learn from that. Not only that we should give,it should become our lifestyle.Everybody always likes to be given . However when we give to others,we are going to receive and going to be blessed “He said

On the spate of kidnappings, pastor Afolabi urged Christians to be prayerful, Vigilant and Jettison selfishness.

While calling on the government at all levels to be up and doing in the area of security,the cleric reminded people who engaged in nefarious acts of indiscriminate kidnapping and killings that in no distant time they would get paid in their own coin .

He urged Nigerians to imbibe Christ like attitude to make the nation live in peace

Adedayo Adelowo

Religion

Hijrah: Makinde approves annual holiday in Oyo state

By Web News 626

Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has approved a yearly public holiday for the celebration of Hijrah, which is  the first month of the Islamic calendar.

Governor Makinde gave the approval during celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad, also known as Mawlid Nabbiyy, which he hosted at the Government House Arcade, Agodi, Ibadan.

Speaking at the event, governor Makinde said the celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad by the Oyo state government would be an annual event.

In a remark, the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta States, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola, appealed to Nigerians, particularly, politicians not to use political warfare to destabilize the country.

Alhaji Makanjuola urged Muslim faithfuls to love one another for Nigeria to be the best to live in. 

The celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad had in attendance the Chief Imam of Ibadan land, Sheik Abubakr Agbotomokekere; the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi; the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji; former first lady of Oyo State, Chief Mutiat Olayinka Ladoja, among others

Iyabo Adebisi

Religion

Empower your deaf children with formal education – Dr Agboluaje

By Web News 1242

The need for parents, government, and religious organizations in Nigeria to live up to empower the deaf so they could live a fulfilled life formed the focus of the 28th Annual Anniversary of the Association of Deaf Muslims in Nigeria held at Olomi in Ibadan.

The guest lecturer at the event, Dr Nojimdeen Agboluaje bemoaned the lackadaisical attitude of the government to the plight of deaf Muslims, saying the government should emulate developed countries where deaf and persons with special needs are given official responsibilities.

Speaking through an interpreter, the National Amir, Association of Deaf Muslims in Nigeria who is also a senior lecturer, at the Federal College of Education, Special Oyo, Alhaji Saka Dagbo, enumerated some of the challenges confronting deaf Muslims to include scarcity of Deaf Muslim Schools and Muslim teachers, neglect of deaf Muslims by Islamic organizations and exclusion deaf Muslims from empowerment programmes of government and philanthropic individuals.

In an interview, the representative of the Executive Assistant to Oyo State Governor on Disability Matters, Mrs. Sakirat Ogundeji, said the government of Oyo State is leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that the deaf in the state receives socioeconomic boosts in the aspiration to actualise their dreams.

Various speakers at the event encouraged parents to give formal education to their deaf children and allow them to practice their faith.

The event which featured the commissioning of a mosque for Deaf Muslims attracted participants from Ibarapa, Oke Ogun, Ogbomoso, Oyo, Ibadan zones of the association, and Deaf Muslims from Lagos State.

Rotimi Famakin

Religion

Islamic Leaders In Ogun Express Worry Of “Oro” Festival Curfew

By Web News 609

Islamic leaders in Ogun State have cautioned against impending religious crisis over the proposed imposition of daylight curfew by Oro traditionalists in Ipokia Town of Ipokia Local Government Area.

The religious leaders under the umbrella of League of Imams and Alfas in the state in a statement signed by the Secretary-General, Sheikh Tajudeen Adewunmi.

They expressed concerns over the violation of rights of Muslim faithful by the Oro traditionalists during their festivals.

The Islamic body called for the intervention of the state governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun on the possible infringement of rights by the Oro adherents.

The league of Imams and Alfas also called for peaceful coexistence among all religious adherents and leaders, noting that various faiths should recognise and respect the rights of the others. 

Wale Oluokun

Religion

Ash Wednesday: Cleric Urges Faithful to Pray for Nigeria

By Web News 710

Christians have been reminded of the need to use the Lenten season to renew their relationship with God and pray for His divine intervention in the affairs of the country.

The very reverend father Lawrence Avro of Saint Anne’s Catholic Church Ibara Abeokuta, gave the advice while speaking with radio Nigeria on the commemoration of this year’s Ash Wednesday.

The very Reverend father Avro who explained that Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the forty day Lenten season of the death and resurrection of Christ, urged Christians to engage in prayers, fasting and arms giving.

 The Cleric noted that the reflection on the sufferings and death of Christ in a way put Christians in the mood for sorrow and repentance from sins.

He admonished the faithful to deny themselves of bodily pleasures in order to be free from every form of worldly distractions

Francisca Irekpita

Religion

Ash Wednesday: Cleric Calls For Humility

By Web News 715

Orthodox churches in Ibadan Metropolis today held early morning services to mark the Ash Wednesday.

In some of the churches visited including St. James the Great Cathedral, Oke Bola and St. Mary Catholic Church Oke Padre, worshippers appeared in sober mood and sang hymns to reflect on the essence of ash Wednesday which herald the Lenten period.

In his homily, Arch Bishop of Catholic Diocese of Ibadan, Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin, charged Christians to be humble and seek the face of god during the forty days spiritual exercise.

Most Rev. Abegunrin also admonished Christians to pray for divine solution to myraids of challenges confronting the nation especially end to covid-19 and insecurity.

On his part, Provost, St. James the great cathedral, Oke-Bola, the very Rev. Olasode Olagbaju, enjoined Nigerians to coexist peacefully.

The customary marking of the cross sign with ashes on the forehead however took a new dimension in some cathedral as priests sprinkled dry ashes on worshippers to practise Covid-19 protocols.

Funmilola Obagbayegun

Religion

Significance Of Lenten Season

By Web News 921

Lent, in Christendom begins with Ash Wednesday.

The Lenten season is usually for a period of six and a half weeks before Easter, and provides for a 40-day fast in which Sundays are excluded

It is a solemn religious observance in the Christian calendar which begins on Ash Wednesday and ends the night before Easter Sunday. 

Sundays are excluded from days of fasting in the Lenten season.

On Ash Wednesday, priests gather ashes from the previous Palm Sunday and rub them on congregants’ foreheads.

It is a time of preparation and focus, as well as reminiscent of Jesus Christ’s time in the wilderness.

The purpose of lent is the preparation of the believer for Easter through prayers, repentance of sins, almsgiving, and self-denial. 

Some churches that observe the forty days fasting are catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian, Baptist, and  some Pentecostal churches few churches equally observe the last 7 days of the Lenten season. 

The last week of lent is holy week, starting with Palm Sunday. 

In Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, radio Nigeria microphone caught up with some residents who spoke on the Lenten season

Speaking on the Lenten season, the pastor in charge of first Baptist church, Odo Ona Elewe, Ibadan, the reverend Samson Ayorinde, pointed out that Christians should use the season to ask for mercy for the world

The reverend Ayorinde equally advised Christians not to go back to their sinful acts after the Lenten period

The Lenten period will end on the third of April, 2021

Olaolu Fawole

Religion

Covid Vaccines: NOA Urges Religious Leaders to Sensitize Faithful

By Web News 535


National Orientation Agency, NOA in Oyo state has called on religious leaders to sensitize their followers on the need to be vaccinated against COVID 19 when the vaccines are made available in the state.
The state director of the Agency, Mr Moshood Olaleye said this during a visit to some places of worship in Ibadan metropolis.
At some of the places of worship visited,Mr Olaleye alongside some officials of the Agency, enjoined religious leaders to support the government in the fight against COVID 19 by admonishing their followers about the benefits of COVID 19 vaccines.
The state NOA boss said COVID 19 vaccine has been certified for human usage by the World Health Organization, WHO, and there had been no negative reports from those who had been vaccinated against COVID 19.
Mr Olaleye who commended religious leaders in Oyo state for complying with COVID 19 Protocols during services, reiterated that there was no medicine for the cure of the virus.
In their separate contributions, the Chief Imam of Ibadan, Sheik Abdulganiyu Agbotomokekere and Pastor Peter Oloyede of Christ Foundation Victory Life Mission, Bashorun, Ibadan, assured the Agency of their total commitment to the fight against Covid-19.


Mr Olaleye at the end of the visit, presented letters on the importance of COVID 19 vaccines written by the Director General of National Orientation Agency, Dr. Garba Abari to the religious leaders.
Some places of worship visited included Christ Foundation Victory Life Mission, Bashorun, NASFAT center, Iwo Road and Christ Apostolic Church, CAC, Yemetu.
Olaolu Fawole

r

Religion

Drastic measures are needed to tackle ethnic clashes – Cleric

By Web News 533

Drastic measures are needed to quell ethnic wrangling in the country in order to ensure sustainable peace and harmony.

A cleric, Evangelist John Goody stated this in an interview with radio Nigeria correspondent in Ibadan.

The cleric, who commended the president for his first speech when he assumed office during his first tenure, said he needed to redouble current efforts at stemming the spate of insecurity in the country.

 Evangelist Goody explained that as the country’s first citizen, President Buhari was a father figure to whom everyone look up to irrespective of ethnic or religious background.

On the recent clash at Sasa market, Ibadan, the cleric appealed to youths to give peace a chance, and not to allow themselves to be used as agents of destruction.

Lilian Ibomor