Some christian leaders in the country, have expressed deep concern and promised to sustain prayers for the return of peace and security to all parts of the country.
The Nigerian Christian Elders’ Forum led by the President, Church of Christ in Nations, COCIN, who also doubles as the President, Nigeria Evangelical Fellowship, NEF, Dachollom Datiri, made their position known at the Government House in Makurdi.
He stated that Benue would remain victorious and Nigeria would come out of the woods, stressing that the solidarity visit was to identify with Governor Ortom and the Benue people on what the state is going through.
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The Christian leader encouraged Governor Ortom to remain courageous and continue to speak out for the oppressed and against injustice and impunity in the country.
The Christian leader assured that the Governor was not alone in the struggle as they are with him in prayers, emphasising that as the mountain surrounds Jerusalem, so God surrounds His people.
Datiri noted that the assassination attempt on the Governor meant the aggressors were angry hence they wanted to eliminate him but prayed that they would never succeed because God had ordained the Governor for what he is doing.
Responding, Governor Samuel Ortom acknowledged the firm support of the Church to the fight against injustice, impunity and lawlessness in the country, stressing that you know your true friends in times of distress.
The Governor emphasised that he meant business when he called on the FG to allow responsible Nigerians own AK47, to defend themselves since Govt cannot stop foreign Fulani Herdsmen influx into the country.
According to the Governor, declaration of state of emergency on security and and national dialogue on security still remain viable avenues, through which the deteriorating security and economic challenges could be tackled.
Also speaking, the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Wilfred Anagbe said that Church leaders owe it a duty to partner Government on the best way possible to serve the people.
Bishop Anagbe said the onslaught on the Nigerian people and Benue in particular, was an Islamic agenda, adding that it was time for the Church to know who leads them prior to elections.
(Edited by Tunde Orebiyi)
