Clerics Chart Path To Democracy

Political leaders in Nigeria
have been urged to spare no effort in contributing positively to the development of the country’s nascent democracy.
A communiqué at the end of the fourth Annual Conference of Pastors and Wives of Rivers District of Assemblies of God Nigeria, held at Krisdera Hotels, Omoku-Rivers State attended by 353 pastors and wives said politicians should cultivate and imbibe the rare trait of tolerating contrary opinions as that is an essential  element of democratic governance.
According to the statement attainment of the vision 20:2020, the Millennium Development Goals and the Vision of Nigeria’s founding fathers depended amply on how much the political class savours the nation’s hard-earned democracy.
It decried the high rate of unemployment and the attendant crime wave in the country and called on entrepreneurs, private and multinational organisations to assist government at all levels of government create job opportunities for the teeming unemployed youths.
The principle of collective responsibility in governance, according to the statement should be embraced by all Nigerians as it urged support and prayers for all elected leaders to sustain democratic values.
The statement signed by the Rivers District Superintendent, of Assemblies of God Nigeria, Rev. Dr. Daddy Ibulubo, the District Secretary, Rev. Clifford Sampson, the Communiqué Committee Chairman, Rev. Linus  Ekerete, the secretary, Rev. Igbiki. Charles-Benibo and Rev. Samuel Olisah as member, called for the crusade for the rebirth of ethical, moral and societal values to curb moral decadence in society.
It also urged the clergy and members to strive to build a strong moral character and described as disturbing alleged cases of moral challenges faced by the church that is supposed to be light and salt of the world.
It decried inordinate quest for materialism and acquisition of wealth as that negates the tenet of the Christian faith and posed snare for gospel preachers and Christians, even as it called on pastors to renounce unbiblical practices that have pervaded the pulpit while preference should be given  for the undiluted word of God that is able to save and sanctify.

Igbiki Benibo