LAGOS – The National President, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Rev Felix Omobude, on Thursday urged Nigerians irrespective of religion or tribe to join hands with the Federal Government in building an egalitarian society.
Omobude said this at a news conference held at Christian Pentecostal Ministry, Ajao Estate, Lagos.
He urged Nigerians to continue to be optimistic in spite of the current challenges, saying “we can make Nigeria a land of integrity and honour.”
“We call on all Nigerians irrespective of tribe or religion to come together as one in these difficult times.
“Our differences are infinitesimal when placed side by side with what we have in common.
“Together we can overcome the challenges of today and face tomorrow with much confidence and hope,” he said.
The cleric called for the restoration of moral consciousness and national ethos to ensure free, fair and credible elections in 2015 and beyond.
Omobude noted with dismay that the scheduled 2015 elections had given rise to “unethical and oppressive practices’’ by some politicians.
He called on politicians to fulfill their promises to the people especially through the provision of social amenities to make life worth-living.
The cleric added:“They should not let selfish ambitions blindfold them. It is important that politicians do not destroy the country they aspire to rule.
“We look forward to our political parties engaging in more robust issues-based discourse rather than the incessant personal and disparaging comments they trade across board.”
Omobude said some of the nation’s political and religious leaders had sold their conscience for the sake of money.
He urged Nigerians to remain positive about the country and pray to God for a prosperous and peaceful 2015.
He expressed concern about the activities of insurgents in the country which had claimed responsibility for the kidnap of more than 200 Chibok girls in April 14.
The cleric, who commended the federal government on its efforts to address the challenges, urged the authorities to do more in stemming insurgency.
Omobude also called on government at all levels to increase their level of cooperation, saying the battle can only be won when Nigerians are united.
“We equally call on all men of goodwill, especially those from the affected parts of the country to intervene in this crisis and ensure that unnecessary waste of lives and resources stops.
“We call on all Christians to continue to uphold Nigeria and the leadership in prayers.” (NAN)