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The Prelate of Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Dr Oliver Ali Aba, JP, has declared that the church will not abandon its prophetic responsibility to speak truth to government, even when such interventions provoke reactions from those in authority.
Dr Aba made the declaration on Monday during a press briefing at Methodist Church Nigeria, Cathedral of Light, Agodi Gate, Ibadan, following the conclusion of the church’s 50th/15th Biennial Conference.
The conference, held in the Archdiocese of Ibadan from August 2 to 9, adopted the theme, “I Will Fight for You” from Exodus 14:14.
At the conference, the church raised the alarm over insecurity, economic hardship, corruption, unemployment and declining living standards, while demanding more accountable governance.
The Methodist Church particularly backed the creation of state police, describing it as necessary for strengthening grassroots intelligence and rapid security response.
The church also commended the rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire LGA of Oyo State and other successful rescue operations across the country.
Speaking during the question-and-answer session, Dr Aba said the church must remain the “conscience” and “voice of the voiceless”, insisting that religious leaders could not remain silent when citizens were suffering.
He said political leaders routinely seek the support and prayers of religious leaders when pursuing political office and should therefore be prepared to listen when the same religious leaders raise concerns about governance.
The Prelate stressed that Nigerians were not asking for extraordinary privileges but expected basic constitutional rights, particularly security of lives and property and the dividends of democracy.
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He also called for stronger cooperation between government and religious institutions, saying both sides have roles to play in building a better Nigeria.
On the Methodist Church’s appeal to young Nigerians, Dr Aba said the answer was not merely modernising church programmes but restoring credibility through sound doctrine and exemplary leadership.
He said the conduct of church leaders was increasingly becoming as important as their sermons, arguing that people would naturally be attracted to a church when they see integrity and genuine Christian values being demonstrated.
The Prelate therefore charged Methodist leaders to live above reproach and remain faithful to their calling.
The church’s communiqué also condemned xenophobic attacks in South Africa, called for improved healthcare services, rejected violence against vulnerable persons, backed democratic governance and urged political actors to support peaceful, free and credible elections.
The Methodist Church Nigeria expressed appreciation to the Oyo State Government, people of the state and security agencies for their support in hosting the conference.
The Prelate and the Conference concluded by urging Nigerians to reject fear, division and hopelessness and remain committed to faith, righteousness, patriotism and peaceful coexistence.
“The Lord shall fight for our beloved nation, Nigeria, and we shall hold our peace,” the Conference declared.
