Opinion

Holy Ghost And Christendom

Published

11 years ago

March 23, 2015

It is asseted in the third
command: “Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain” (Exodus 20 V. 7).
Truly, in the spiritual domain, there are hierarchies of divinity among the supernatural deity of the entire universe. In other words, the baptism of the Messiah (Jesus) at River Jordan by John de Baptist connotes the concept of Trinity; Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Ghost), manifested in the presence of men through Jesus who was physically here on earth as he walked to John to be baptized in order to fulfill all righteousness, for the simple purpose of redeeming mankind from the rudiments of sin brought about by the rebellion of Lucifer (Satan).
While John de Baptist was carrying out his assignment of baptism of repentance to people as soon as he sighted the Messiah afar off, he acknowledged Him and drew people’s attention to the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world. Of course, John had talked about the Messiah before now whose lachet of shoe he would not be able to loose.
When Jesus was raised from the water of baptism, there was a significant event which occurred as a dove descended on him, symbolizing the Holy Spirit. A voice echoed from Heaven. “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3 Vs 16,17). In fact, this pronouncement is an indication that there is One Deity functioning in three-dimensional capacities that is beyond human degree of understanding. The integration of the Godhead and their personal activities is unquestionable.
As mentioned earlier, God’s name should not be ridiculed or made vain. In Christendom and contemporary society, there are a lot of jestings on the use of the Holy Ghost and the Blood of Jesus. The LORD is being addressed as if He were deaf or at a distance that requires much shouting and physical entanglement in order to achieve a purpose. One could imagine the solemnity, dignity, fame and ego accorded to mortal beings on earth based on the position they occupy.
It is obvious that before the coming of the Messiah during the 4th century AD, there was a religious encounter with the Prophets of God and those of Baal. Baal in this context connotes idol or strange god outside the real God of creation. So, the contention was to prove the true God who hears and answers petitions. On the contrary it was also to identify the gods that appear in the form of a loving creature, but could not perform or act positively, hence the episode or drama between the true worshippers of God and falsehood. The Prophets of Baal (god) prepared their sacrifices as well as Prophet Elijah at the mountain of Camel in Israel.
The authentification of these sacrifices depended on the response of their respective deities. However, the event started with the prophets of Baal as they called on their god severally, without any response. The simple reason Baal could not respond was that it was not a living god but being preferred to the real God who created heaven and earth. Prophet Elijah began to make a mockery of them by asking them to cry aloud; probably their god might have been asleep or might have travelled which might require more efforts on their part.
Efforts and energy were exerted and there was no fruitful result and they became weary and confused about the whole episode. However, the man of God, Prophet Elijah, was set with his sacrifice entrenched in a pool of water and stones and enjoined the prophets of Baal to watch the miraculous drama between him and the living God. Without hesitation, Elijah raised his voice solemnly and the Almighty God answered swiftly by fire and consumed the sacrifice of Prophet Elijah in the presence of the 450 prophets of Baal. In fact, they were surprised at the quick response to the call of Elijah (1st King 18:27-29 and 31 -40) respectively.
Christians should not approach God as if he was Baal that could not hear and respond accordingly. God is a Spirit who must be worshipped in spirit and in truth (John 4 vs 22-14). The method and manner in which the Lord’s name is being ridiculed in our contemporary times is very appalling. That Divine name should be addressed with all sense of humility and reverence because God Himself is omnipotent, Omniscient and Omnipresent (OOO), a symbolic acronym expressing that God is all powerful, all knowing and ever-present who knows the intents of man’s heart from the beginning.
God knows the number of hair on human head. Therefore, there is no secret before him. Human beings tend to control and direct the Holy Ghost (Spirit) instead of subjecting themselves to be used, controlled and directed by the Holy Spirit according to the scriptural injunction in John 16:7-14. Therefore trying to control the Holy Ghost could be likened to someone trying to be faster than his or her shadow which is impossible. The shadow is always before the human being.
Of course, the Holy Spirit was not sent to humanity to war against mankind, but rather to do the work of guidance, counseling and direct the heart of men to the truly embedded in the LORD and Saviour of mankind – Jesus Christ through the written word of God (the Holy Scriptures).
Therefore communion with the Godhead represented bodily on earth by Jesus Christ, that is, God the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, according to Matthew 28:19 – 20 should be held solemnly and not by jesting the name of the LORD, the Majesty of the entire cosmic universe, creator of animate and inanimate creatures who inhabit eternity and whose understanding is unsearchable – Isaiah 40: 28.
The name Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit should be accorded the same divine attributes as Father, Son (Jesus) and should not be used indiscriminately because they are co-eternal Being. Apostle Peter used that name solemnly by faith as he spoke to the lame man at the beautiful gate in Jerusalem to rise up and walk (Acts 3:6).
It is unfortunate that these days, despite the multitude of men of God in Christendom, they could not correct the atrocious and improper use of the Holy Spirit and the name of God. Many at times during prayer sessions, Holy Ghost fire is being conjured and commanded to consume human beings with reference to enemies, who were supposed to be saved by the grace of God through human efforts of proclaiming the gospel message to the poor. Jesus, the omnipotent God on earth, would have commanded the Holy Ghost fire to consume those that even crucified him at the cross of Calvary, rather he prayed for their forgiveness and ignorance.
Christians should be careful on how the name of the LORD is being used particularly the Holy Ghost and the Blood of Jesus in communication with divinity and humanity respectively. The Holy constitution for Christian practices (the scriptures) should be studied and meditated upon for appropriate direction and guidance in the usage of God’s attributes. Jesus asserted; search the scriptures (John 5 v 39).
It is written; “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge because they rejected knowledge …” (Hosea 4 : 6). This was a deliberate act of refusing to do that which is right. Meanwhile, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge but fools despise wisdom and instruction” (Proverbs 1: 7). A word is enough for the prudent! Let humanity have a rethink on how to revere God in all ramifications.
Ominyanwa is a public affairs analyst.

Goddy Ominyanwa

Opinion

Kudos Gov Fubara

Published

1 week ago

January 2, 2026

The Tide

Please permit me to use this medium to appreciate our able governor, Siminalayi Fubara for the inauguration of the 14.2-kilometre Obodhi–Ozochi Road in Ahoada-East Local Government Area. This inauguration marks a significant milestone in the history of our communities and deserves commendation. We, the people of Ozochi, are particularly happy because this project has brought long-awaited relief after years of isolation and hardship.

The expression of our traditional ruler, His Royal Highness, Eze Prince Ike Ehie, JP, during the inauguration captured the joy of our people. He said, “our isolation is over.” That reflects the profound impact of this road on daily life, economic activities, and social integration of the people of Ozochi and other neighbouring communities. The road will no doubt ease transportation, improve access to markets and healthcare, and strengthen links between Ahoada, Omoku, and other parts of Rivers State.

The people of Ahoada, Omoku, and indeed Rivers State as a whole are grateful to our dear governor for this laudable achievement and wish him many more successful years in office. We pray that God endows him with more wisdom and strength to continue to pilot the affairs of the state for the benefit of all. As citizens, we should rally behind the governor and support his development agenda. Our politicians and stakeholders should embrace peace and cooperation, as no meaningful progress can be achieved in an atmosphere of conflict. Sustainable development in the state can only thrive where peace prevails.

Samuel Ebiye

Opinion

… And It Came To Pass

Published

1 week ago

January 2, 2026

The Tide

Quote:“Leadership is not measured by how hard one strikes back, but by how steady one remains under provocation.”

Tell it in Rivers State, publish it in the streets of Port Harcourt, so the daughters of the State could rejoice, and the daughters of the uncircumcised triumph and know that Fubara is not vindictive”. And it came to pass that Rivers State emerged from one of the most delicate chapters in its political journey, the period of emergency rule that spanned from March 18 to September 18, 2025. It was a season that tested institutions, strained loyalties, and exposed the fragile balance between power and principle. During that time, the suspended Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara DSSRS, was widely believed to have suffered not only political setbacks but personal betrayal, allegedly from some top civil servants within the state apparatus. These were individuals expected to uphold neutrality and professionalism, yet were accused in public opinion of taking sides against the very government they served.

As the emergency rule ended and Governor Fubara resumed office, expectations were shaped less by policy and more by emotion. Many assumed that revenge would quietly find expression through governance. The loudest suspicion centered on the 2025 Christmas bonus of ?100,000 traditionally paid to each worker. The thinking was simple and cynical: a wounded governor would surely withhold goodwill. Some voices even mocked workers openly hoping that the governor would refuse to pay the bonus. To them, denial of the bonus would serve as proof of political strength and justified retaliation. In reality, such thinking revealed a troubling desire to see governance reduced to personal vendetta. Yet, it came to pass, the governor chose a path that confounded suspicion. Against all expectations, the 2025 Christmas bonus was paid.

That single decision quietly but firmly reframed the narrative. It showed a leader focused on governance rather than grudges, on institutional continuity rather than emotional satisfaction. The payment was not a favor, nor was it a concession; it was a statement that public administration must rise above personal injury. By honoring the bonus, Governor Fubara demonstrated that leadership is not measured by how hard one strikes back, but by how steady one remains under provocation. He made it clear that workers’ welfare would not become collateral damage in political disagreements. This action also served as a moral rebuke to those who celebrated division and hoped for punishment. Governance is not validated by the suffering of workers, nor is leadership strengthened by withholding entitlements. At the same time, the issue of alleged sycophancy and betrayal within the civil service cannot be brushed aside. If proven, such conduct deserves firm, lawful, and institutional correction. Civil servants are bound by duty to the state, not to political conspiracies or shifting loyalties.

However, justice must never be confused with revenge. The strength of governance lies in correcting wrongs without destroying the system itself. Governor Fubara’s restraint suggested an understanding that the future of Rivers State mattered more than settling scores. For workers, this moment carried an important lesson. Celebration should be rooted in good governance, not in the expectation of another’s downfall. Rejoicing in rumors of denial or punishment undermines the very stability that protects workers’ welfare. Public service thrives where professionalism, mutual respect, and accountability are upheld. Pettiness, gossip, and political scheming only weaken institutions and erode trust. History often remembers leaders not for the crises they inherit, but for the character they display in response. In paying the 2025 Christmas bonus, Governor Fubara chose legacy over impulse, maturity over malice.

And so, it came to pass that focus defeated revenge, governance triumphed over bitterness, and Rivers State was reminded that true leadership is proven when restraint is expected least but delivered most. Beyond the symbolism of the Christmas bonus lies a deeper question about the kind of political culture Rivers State intends to cultivate in the years ahead. Periods of emergency rule, anywhere in the world, often leave behind residues of suspicion, fear, and silent realignments. Institutions do not emerge untouched; individuals recalibrate loyalties, some out of conviction, others out of self-preservation. What distinguishes stable democracies from fragile ones is not the absence of such moments, but the discipline with which leadership manages their aftermath. River.

King Onunwor

Opinion

That Withdrawal of Police Orderlies From VIPs

Published

1 week ago

January 2, 2026

The Tide

Quote:”Balancing VIP security with public safety remains a tightrope walk in a country where the majority of citizens are still under-protected.”

The Presidential announcement on the removal of police orderlies from persons in authority and their relations ( Very Important Persons ) last month came as a relief to many Nigerians who felt deprived of one major role of government ; security of lives and property.The higher population of Nigerians missed needed security because the VIPs and the VVIPs kept retinue of Police Officers totalling over 100 ,000 to themselves and their family members as if they are all that matter while some communities under attack of terrorists have no single unit of police station located there in. While many hailed the announcement , some said perhaps the government has just woken up to her major responsibility of securing the lives and property of all citizens while many expressed indifference on the note that it may be one of those pronouncements which come only in words but no action .Many keep their fingers crossed watching how it will play out , how Mr President will go about the implementation of the seemingly dicey policy .

Benjamin Franklin said “well said is better than well done ” It is sufficient today to say that many Nigerians including me are still waiting and watching to see how well and how long this return of the Police service to the ordinary people will go . Wishing hopes will not be crashed , It is note worthy, that the recent complaints by the VIPs of being exposed to attacks may in a way affect the action on implementation. Recently, at Senate plenary , another worrisome angle came up as Senator Abdul Ningi coming through a motion disclosed that he had only one police officer attached to him ( his office ) and that the officer was recalled the week before following Mr President’s directive . Senator Ningi said the withdrawal exposed him to high risks but underscored the angle that while his orderly was recalled , many other politicians , men and women in authority, business concerns foreigners and even children of some VIPs are still enjoying retinue of police protection ( officially attached to them ).

It’s note worthy also that the Deputy Senate President , Distinguished Senator Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session revealed that the leadership of both chambers are already in discussion with President Tinubu on the need to exempt the law makers from the new policy . Senator Ningi may not be wrong . After all he emphasized he is okay provided that the removal of the Police Orderlies be done across board . Senator Barau noted that talks are on over the issue of law makers’ in line with international practice . Further details from the Presidency noted that Presiding officers will retain their police officers , others would have Civil Defense officers ( NSCDC) as orderlies while any other VIP who feels he or she deserves personal police protection should get clearance from his office . In the midst of all issues weighing in on the proper implementation , it becomes necessary to bear in mind that the decision hinges on the realization that Nigeria has peculiar security issues (of kidnappings, banditry, and terrorism.) and that majority of Nigerians are under protected.

More so, that if well implemented, Police officers will focus on core duties; even as 30,000 new police officers are to recruited to enhance security .That implementation must be made in a way that leaves no room.for selective treatment loss of confidence and controversies. Looking at previous attempts of implementation of this policy gives faint hope as several attempts consistently failed . Former IGPs like Tafa Balogun (2003), Ogbonnaya Onovo (2009), and Ibrahim Idris (2018) tried the policy but all failed due to political resistance from various angles. All the failed attempts were tied to lack of political will mostly due to the fact that the directives came from police chiefs, not the president. Selective Enforcement was another killer to the policy as partial implementation met resistance and later reversal . Egbetokun (2023) and Adamu (2020) saw minimal impact.

Further more entrenched corruption in the system saw Politicians and VIPs quietly regain police escorts due to ‘transactional economics”and pressure. Worse still the mindset of the police officers withdrawn didn’t help the policy Underpaid police prioritize VIP duties for extra benefits. Many wish President Tinubu’s move can break this cycle. As at today, he still insists the move is non-negotiable while stressing collaboration with states to upgrade training facilities. As citizens look forward to success of the policy without undue exposure of both sides, balancing VIP security with public safety remains a tightrope walk. Talk fades ; action echoes. How the Presidency implements this policy. has much to tell on the governments stand on national / community security , choice of priority and the ability to stand uncomprised . The known goal is clear: The outcome is not yet certain. Fingers crossed , we await . Definitely , time will tell.

By: Nneka Amaechi-Nnadi.

s State stood at such a crossroads in September 2025. The temptation to rule with a long memory and a heavy hand was real. Yet, the choice made signaled a preference for healing over hardening. Leadership after crisis demands more than administrative competence; it requires moral clarity.

Governor Fubara’s decision reminded the state that authority is not best exercised through silent punishment or selective generosity. Rather, it is strengthened when rules remain rules, irrespective of personal injury. By keeping faith with workers, the government preserved an essential firewall between politics and public service. That firewall, once breached, turns governance into a battlefield where livelihoods become weapons. Rivers State narrowly avoided that descent. In doing so, it affirmed that institutions must outlive tempers, and governance must not mirror the bitterness of political seasons. This moment also invites sober introspection within the civil service itself. Allegations of partisanship, if left unresolved, corrode professionalism and weaken public confidence. A civil service that drifts into political camps loses its moral authority and operational effectiveness.

Therefore, reform, where necessary, should be guided by due process, transparency, and institutional review—not whispers, witch-hunts, or mob verdicts. Accountability strengthens systems when it is fair; it destroys them when it is arbitrary. The restraint shown by the executive places a corresponding burden on administrative leadership to restore discipline, neutrality, and pride in public service. For the wider political class and the commentariat, the episode serves as a caution against normalizing cruelty as strategy. The eagerness with which some anticipated workers’ suffering revealed a dangerous appetite for scorched-earth politics. When governance becomes a spectator sport where pain is cheered and deprivation is weaponized, society inches toward moral exhaustion. Rivers State has seen enough turbulence to know that stability is not sustained by triumphalism, but by restraint.

The lesson is simple yet profound: power is fleeting, but institutions endure; leaders pass, but precedents remain. In the end, the payment of the 2025 Christmas bonus was more than a fiscal act—it was a civic statement. It told workers they were not expendable. It told political actors that revenge would not be policy. And it told the state that maturity in leadership is not weakness, but strength under control. In a climate where many expected fire, restraint prevailed; where bitterness was predicted, balance emerged. Thus, Rivers State was offered a rare reminder that governance, at its best, is an act of discipline, and leadership, at its highest, is the courage to rise above provocation.