Human Angle

YcDEI Holds Town Hall Meeting with Christian Leaders on GBV Prevention

By Web News 298

By Titilayo Kupoliyi

The Youthcare Development and Empowerment Initiative (YcDEI) has convened a town hall meeting for General Overseers of churches across the five Local Government Areas in the Ibadan Metropolis of Oyo State.

The meeting, supported by the Ford Foundation, forms part of the organization’s ongoing efforts to accelerate actions aimed at ending Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in society.
In her welcome address, the Executive Director of YcDEI, Professor Adefunke Ekine, emphasized the influential role of church leaders in shaping moral and social attitudes.

She noted that congregants often look up to their General Overseers as representatives of God, making them strategic voices in promoting GBV prevention and fostering respectful relationships within communities.


Professor Ekine urged church leaders to consistently preach the correct application of biblical teachings and to exemplify godly living, as their conduct serves as a visible reflection of God’s character to the people.

Speaking at the event, the Project Coordinator, Oluwatoyin Adebayo, explained that the town hall aimed to encourage churches to establish GBV Prevention Desks and integrate GBV prevention messages into marital counselling sessions and church safeguarding policies.

Over 25 churches participated in the programme, pledging their commitment to inaugurate GBV Prevention Committees and develop action plans to incorporate GBV awareness into sermons and marital counselling.


Participants, including Apostle Isaac Oluwanifise, General Overseer of Flame Gospel Ministry Mrs. Deborah Oluwafemi, and Mrs. Ayodele Alao, a Champion, described the initiative as timely and enlightening.

Apostle Oluwanifise, commended the organizers, urging leaders to “put all they were taught into practice,” adding that “what we need now is change, because charity begins at home.” He further emphasized the importance of engaging the youth early to achieve lasting results.

Mrs. Oluwafemi remarked that the programme “opened our eyes to the realities in society,” calling on participants to “keep amplifying the message until it reaches every nook and cranny of the state.”

She encouraged community members to “be their brother’s keeper and support GBV survivors.”

Mrs. Alao appreciated the initiative, highlighting the challenge of stigmatization that often silences survivors within church communities.

“Many people die before their time because they are afraid to speak out,” she said, advocating for the creation of safe spaces for survivors within faith institutions.

Representatives from the Oyo State Ministry of Women Affairs, Oyo State Ministry of Justice, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), and the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) were in attendance.

Highlights of the event included the presentation of draft documents on ending GBV in churches, an action plan for faith-based institutions, and group photographs to commemorate the engagement.

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Lifestyle

Aiyedatiwa Charges Workers to be More Dedicated to Duty

By Web News 198

By Isaac Afolabi

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has challenged civil servants in Ondo State to be more dedicated to their work to contribute meaningfully to the all-round development of the state.

Governor Aiyedatiwa gave the charge during the first Working Day Prayer Meeting which took place at the Governor’s office in Alagbaka, Akure.

He saluted the workers, union leaders, security agencies and other stakeholders for their cooperation as well as dedication to duty urging them to join him in fulfilling his electioneering promises to the people.

Earlier, the Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philips had charged workers to be more proactive, and dedicated to duty and also justify the commitment of the state government to their welfare.

Admonishing the people, Reverend Funke Felix-Adejumo of the Agape Ministries, Chairman, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, Ondo State, Bishop Joshua Opayinka and Pastor Michael Ogunbayode of Season of Life Ministries urged civil servants to be more passionate about their job and pray fervently for success in all ways.

The workers who dressed in beautiful attires danced to various worship songs led by gospel artists.

During the programme, prayers were offered for the peace and development of Ondo State and Nigeria in general.  Some of the dignitaries who graced the colourful occasion included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Speaker of Ondo State House Of Assembly, ODHA, Mr Olamide Oladiji, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC in Ondo State, Mr Ade Adetimehin, Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola, union leaders from the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria, JUSUN, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, and Radio, Television, Art Theatre Worker Union Of Nigeria, RATTAWU, among others.

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Religion

PFN Inaugurates New Executive Members

By Web News 491

By Lilian Ibomor

Newly inaugurated Executive members of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, Oyo State chapter have been charged to be committed to the development of the Church despite challenges.

State Inauguration Chairman of PFN, Archbishop Joseph Ojo stated this at a ceremony to mark their new tenure in office.

Archbishop Ojo, who appreciated God for their successful tenure in office, urged the incoming state chairman, Reverend Samson Ajetonmobi and his Exco members to continue to be good ambassadors of the church they represent.

In an acceptance speech, Reverend Ajetonmobi said he and his team would continue to build on past legacies and focus more on outreach services.

In a Goodwill message, the Governor of Oyo State who was represented by his  Special Adviser on Interfaith Affairs, Reverend Olufemi Ibikunle enjoined the new Exco to always complement the Government’s effort in taking the state to a greater height. 

The inaugural ceremony was also attended by representatives of the Nigerian Army, the state commissioner of police and other security agencies.

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Religion

PFN Bares Mind on Forthcoming Election Tribunal Ruling, ECOWAS

By Web News 483

By Dayo Adu

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, has called on politicians and the entire citizens to accept the verdict of the Presidential Election Tribunal when declared to enhance the healing and development of Nigeria.

The body of Christian clerics gave the advice at a press conference marking the end of its three days Executive Retreat in Ibadan.

The PFN National President, Bishop Wale Oke, explained that the keenly contested 2023 general election almost split the nation from top to bottom, hence the need for political gladiators to bury their hatchets to allow the pronouncement of the tribunal put a rest to their grievances.

Bishop Oke, who lamented the economic hardship of Nigerians, called on President Bola Tinubu to relieve the citizens of their pains.

The PFN President while expressing optimism over the current situation in the country, urged President Tinubu not to witch hunt any citizen but to focus on making Nigeria a more virile and prosperous nation.

He enjoined the newly appointed ministers, when inaugurated, to support the president in order to provide solution to the economic hardship currently being faced in the country.

Commenting on ECOWAS’ decision on coup by the Junta in Niger Republic, the PFN through its Director of Diaspora Operations, Bishop Goddy Okafor, advised the heads of states and top diplomats of west African countries to utilize strong economic as well as diplomatic pressure rather than military force.

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Religion

Former General Overseer, Foursquare Church,a Worthy Leader-PFN

By Web News 858

President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale Oke, has described the former General Overseer of the Foursquare Church, Dr Wilson Badejo,as a forthright individual who served God with all his might.

In a condolence message made available by his Media Office, the PFN President described the news of Badejo’s death as shocking to the nation and the world, particularly to the Christian community.

According to Bishop Oke, the former General Overseer of the Foursquare Church gave his all to the service of the Lord while alive, a development he added, enhanced the spread of the gospel to nations of the world.

The PFN President who is also the presiding Bishop of the Sword of the Spirit Ministries, Ibadan, said that no doubt that the passage of the deceased was painful and shocking, the worthy life he lived, would remain a challenge to the living.

“Rev Dr Wilson Badejo was a strong-willed man who pursued righteousness till he breathed his last. For everyone, death is a garb that will be worn by all at the appointed time. Though humanly speaking,one wouldn’t have wanted him to go now, however,God is the ultimate decider of when for everybody” Bishop Oke noted.

He said that death should always serve as a lesson of reminder that nobody would live in the world forever lamenting that many in the society still behave as if they would never leave the planet earth.

“In the case of Rev Badejo, our joy and solace is that having fought a good fight of faith, he has gone to rest with our Lord Jesus Christ. And that’s what every Christian should work towards and crave for” the renowned cleric further advised

While commiserating with the family, Foursquare Church and the Christian body in the country, the PFN helmsman prayed that God would grant everyone concerned, the fortitude to bear Badejo’s transition to glory.

Mosope Kehinde

Religion

PFN Oyo Chapter Organises Prayers For Nigeria

By Web News 1614

The Pentecostal Fellowship of of Nigeria, PFN, Oyo State chapter has organized prayers for the peace and unity of the Nation.

 The interdenominational prayer movement for national repentance, revival and recovery was held at Maranathan Chapel, Zion Cathedral, Iwo-Road Ibadan.

 Speaking with Radio Nigeria, the National President PFN. Prophet Isa EL BuBa enjoined  Christians to be proactive, watchful and prayerful over present situation in the country.

In a sermon, Regional Pastor, Redeemed Christian Church of God,  RCCG, Oyo State, Charles Obasa said the collective responsibility of all Christians was to pray for the peace and security of the country. 

Vice President, PFN, Oyo State Chapter,  Pastor Ayoola Olubusuyi led the congregation in prayer of mercy for the nation. 

Other activities included thanksgiving and songs of praise unto God. 

Funmi Obagbayegun

Religion

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

By Web News 664

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

PFN Advises Members to Shun Political Apathy

By Web News 980

Christian leaders in Oyo state have reiterated the need for Christians to shun political apathy.

Faithful are also encouraged to get more involved in the nation’s political structure to accelerate the Nigeria’s economic growth and development.

They made the call at the general pastors meeting of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigerian, PFN, held in Ibadan.

Guest speaker, Executive Director of a Civil Society Organization, Public Education Works Initiative, Mr Nimi Walson-Jack while speaking on the topic “Political Education” believed that democracy requires active participation of everyone, irrespective of religious background.

Mr Walson-Jack appealed to Christians in Nigeria to jettison the mindset that politics is dirty, rather see it as a ministry and opportunity to make positive changes.

The Co-speaker, Presiding Pastor, Living Spring International, Pastor Femi Emmanuel advised the Church communities to get informed, join political parties at the ward level and form a formidable team to win elections.

Also speaking, Oyo state Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Apostle Joshua Akinyemiju said it is time for Christians to realise the need to be part of leadership especially in the political spheres of the country.

Earlier, chairman, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Oyo State, Rev Samson Ajetomobi said the purpose of the meeting was to overcome the ignorance about politics in the church.

Niyi Dahunsi

Lifestyle

Oyo PFN Donates PPE to Covid-19 Task force

By Web News 1200

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Oyo State Chapter, has donated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for frontline health workers in the state to the Oyo COVID-19 Task Force, in appreciation of the tireless efforts being exerted to contain the spread of coronavirus in the state.

The PFN led by its state chairman, Reverend Samson Ajetomobi, presented the Personal Protective Equipment comprising of N95 respirators and TYVEK suits to the task force at the parking lot of the Oyo State Ministry of Health.

Oyo PFN Chairman, Reverend Samson Ajetomobi (l) with Permanent Secretary, Oyo State Ministry of Health, Dr. A.M Ayoola (r), during the presentation

Speaking during the presentation, Reverend Ajetomobi said while the PFN prays that God in his mercies will deliver the state and the nation from the pandemic, it is also important that every individual play their part in putting an end to the pandemic.

He lauded the task force for its efforts to ensure that the virus is curtailed in the state, he urged the people to abide by the standard regulations put in place to ensure the COVID-19 wave blows over quickly, adding that the earlier everyone plays a part, the faster the disease will be defeated.

Reverend Ajetomobi further urged well-meaning people and organisations in the state to do what they can to assist the task force in its activities and also spread the love at this period so that every member of the society can have an easier time while the COVID-19 battle lasts.

“It is our belief that organisations and individuals need to collaborate with the government for this battle to be quickly won. We need to help with our substance and our obedience so that the work of the task force will be easier. This is the time to come together and work towards combating this scourge; we need to be our brother’s keeper at this time and show love for mankind.

Most importantly, while we pray, let us also follow laid down guidelines of hygiene and maintain social distancing. Do not go wherever is not necessary at this period, it is a sacrifice we all have to make to save our world,” Rev. Ajetomobi stated, reiterating that the PFN will continue to support the government in the fight against the pandemic and in the service to humanity.

While receiving the items on behalf of the government, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr A. M Ayoola, commended the PFN for the donation which he promised would be used judiciously in the fight against coronavirus and in service to humanity. Dr Ayoola reiterated government’s determination to ensure that the pandemic is brought to its knees before it ravages the state.

Niyi Dahunsi