LAGOS AUGUST 28TH (URHOBOTODAY)-Former Nigeria Head of State and chairman and convener, Nigeria Prays, Gen Yakubu Gowon (rtd), true to his determination to see Nigeria blessed with God’s intervention in its affairs, was at the second session of the 2nd Synod of the Diocese of Sapele (Anglican Communion), Delta State. With stern-looking operatives of the Army and Directorate of State Security (DSS) thronging the event, the church was a “no go area” to hoodlums who wanted to exploit the presence of the great man to play pranks.
Gowon, still very vibrant in his speech, commended the leadership of the church for its diligence and persistence in knocking on his door without which he would not have been able to make the occasion.
The former Head of State stated that the theme of synod, ‘The Church, Instrument of National Unity Development’ was quite appropriate to the current state of the nation. Continuing he said that from the beginning of time, religion and governance have always worked hand in hand, with both enjoying some kind of symbiotic relationship. This, he said, was further demonstrated in that in some religions such as Islam, the spiritual could also be the political head.
Gowon said further, “In biblical times, under theocracy, priests and judges ruled based on instructions and laws received from God. Their authority was largely unquestioned as the people saw that they led by example because they lived according to laws handed down by God and they never said what God never told them.
Individuals and groups rebelled against their authorities often paid the price and the wicked never went unpunished.”
He added that whenever God’s people began to believe that they did not need His authority to direct their affairs, they demanded for kings like Saul, David and Solomon who came and went, but the grace of God continued to abide in spite of human failings.”
Gowon noted that the advent of western democracy however occasioned a clear separation of the church and politics, noting that in spite of this both were mutually exclusive.
The ex-Nigeria leader pointed out that in the colonial times one of key requirements of administration was that that the church as well as the citizens must continually pray for Her Majesty, the Governor General, the regional governors, and the traditional rulers of the areas. According to him, this was in realization that all power belongs to God who needs the development of society. Only a conceited leader, according to Gowon, would discountenance the place and power of God, as well as the wisdom and understanding that can only come from him.
According to him, this was in realization that all power belongs to God who needs the development of society. Only a conceited leader, according to Gowon, would discountenance the place and power of God, as well as the wisdom and understanding that can only come from him.
He added: “We all know too well the end of such leaders/rulers that erred in the sight of or before the Lord.”
Gowon revealed how the Emir of Zaria was assisted by the church thus, “Closer home, a lot of people do not know that one of the biggest pillars of the support of the Emir of Zaria for instance was the church. During the early days of missionary activities in Nigeria, the Emir promoted religious tolerance in a predominantly Islamic domain and demonstrated his building of a church not for away from his palace.” Continuing, Gowon noted, “In Nigeria, we must pray without ceasing and work like our lives depend on it.
Prayers will help to strengthen our faith in God, in our nation and mankind, especially in the face of the current challenge of insurgency. The prayer of the faithful will help to enthrone peace and love in Nigeria. We do not need to take up arms or to be heard to fight religious war as has happened in the Middle East.”
In his presentation, Rt. Rev Blessing Erifeta, bishop, Diocese of Sapele Anglican Communion enumerated the mission of the church and other aspects such as evangelism and spiritual growth. He stated that their strong desire to raise spiritually-balanced members is the reason for their packaging of such-minded programmes to meet the yearnings and aspirations of the people. He spoke during their monthly prayer service tagged, ‘Showers in the Morning.’ According to him, “We need to encourage members on the need to attend the services regularly. Those who attended are living witnesses to what God is doing.”
Erifeta continued, “The monthly prayer bulletin is another area of spiritual growth. It covers vast areas of our needs: prayer points needed for our daily lives, family, the church, nation, communities, ministers of God, lay members diocese including their birth days and marriage anniversaries. It also covers individuals with peculiar challenges, Diocese of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) and bishops, sub-groups and societies with church, among others, are documented.” Dignitaries at the event included Rt.Rev. C.E. Ideh, Rt.Rev. Onekpe, Rt.Rev. Praise Oneleku, Rt. Rev. Obotemu, Dr. Henry Ofa, Austin Ayemidejor, Engr. Ifionu, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, Olorogun Kenneth Okpara and Chief Osiobo Okotie.
Source: Daily Independent