Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, Methodist Church prelate, discussed Sunday concerns in Anambra with OKEY MADUFORO:
In his presentation, Moses Nwakamma, the new Bishop of Awka Diocese, mentioned ecumenism.
Yes, ecumenism has existed among Christians, and that reminds me; I just returned from Kenya, where we had our all-African branches of churches and last month, we had a Methodist Council meeting, and very soon, we are going to Sweden for World Council of Churches and particularly the Methodist Church. We’re already connected. Therefore, I guess the Bishop’s saying church names don’t matter.
Though our names have divided us, we must unite in diversity. First and foremost, we spiritual leaders must be able to guide our people to paradise. Our Lord Jesus Christ commanded us to take care of His sheep and never to split the church. Therefore, we should focus on making heaven and leading people to God, regardless of our denomination.
Catholics, Anglicans, Pentecostals, and others were present during the service. Thus, winning souls for God and Christ is more important than denomination. Despite this denominational issue, Christians are united and will always be united. The nation fears a crisis before or after May 29.
Nothing will occur. Nigerians should be patriotic. Are we satisfied with Sudan?
Kenya: Are we pleased? I left Kenya last week, and on Friday, the news broke that 89 people were buried in the act of cultism or terrorism, which the Kenyan government calls terrorism but is beyond cultism. I’m arguing that every Nigerian must have a shock absorber and agree to advance our nation.
You know Nigeria is Africa’s hope. Why should we not act like dads to other African nations that name us their fathers?
We need to lead by example, and we must behave appropriately since we are Africa’s colossus. That day was just another typical Nigerian democratic day, and we only know that one person must be present, not two. Whether correct or not, we must work together to improve Nigeria for current and future generations of Nigerians, especially the unborn.
We’ve known these politicians for years, and they say they have no permanent friends or enemies but permanent interests and want lasting interest. Therefore, we must not cause difficulty for this country or start wars. We know that God is with us, loves Nigeria, and will unite Nigeria.
But the last general election was unreliable, and people are contesting it?
I just read the Bible, brother. But whatever our opinions, we must work together to improve Nigerian society. Are you saying that everything your mum prepares is sweet? You’ll eat dishes with too much salt or pepper or no pepper. We as a nation must come together because, as you don’t seem to realise, I’ve travelled far and wide and seen what’s occurring in other countries.
Nigeria needs to be more significant for problems. If we enter a war or political catastrophe, where will we go? Cameroon and Cote d’Ivoire are fleeing to Nigeria, and you want us to do the same.
Where are we going? You’re a Christian pushing for war. Nigeria cannot afford another war or political instability. Thus, we should discourage it. Many of those discussing war did not see the Nigerian Civil War, and those who did were too young and still suckling their mothers’ breasts. We who saw the war can’t even think about another war in this country.
War is a lousy breeze. We’ve seen conflict in Nigeria, and attempting to stir up problems for the election could be better. May 29 is simply another day that will come and go, save for the inauguration of a new president. Nigerians have gone a long way and must move the country ahead, not cause strife. Nigerians don’t want another conflict; we want to improve our nation and its people.