Abuja: The Primate of The Church of the Lord, Worldwide (TCLWW), Most Rev. Rufus Ositelu, has called on Nigerians and political leaders to uphold secularism as a guiding principle for governance. He emphasized that this approach would foster unity, fairness, and transparency among the diverse segments of the Nigerian populace.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ositelu, who also serves as the President of the World Council of Churches (WCC) for Africa, made this appeal during the Cathedral Dedication of TCLWW in Abuja. He stressed that a genuinely equitable and cohesive nation should distinguish religious influence from political administration. Ositelu urged both government officials and citizens to genuinely love Nigeria, as this would translate into societal progress and development.
He attributed many of the nation’s challenges to personal interests and a lack of love for the country. “Many of these woes are due to personal gains and lack of love for this country. If we love Nigeria, we know the truth and the truth will set us free; we will do the right thing,” he stated. Ositelu highlighted that Nigeria’s constitution recognizes it as a secular state and questioned why federal or state governments should entertain anything other than secularity. He noted that this issue has persisted for over 30 years, initially dismissed as a temporary political matter, but has since grown to negatively impact the country.
Ositelu drew a parallel between Nigeria and Switzerland, suggesting a rotational presidency that mirrors Switzerland’s regional power-sharing. “If you want power as the Prime Minister, you contest. But we can also have the presidency like they have in Switzerland which is shifting from one region to another,” he explained, adding that this would ensure representation and recognition for all tribes within and outside Nigeria.
He also encouraged Nigerians to continue praying for their nation, expressing optimism that within a decade, Nigeria would experience great progress. Speaking on the theme ‘By the Grace of God it is Done,’ he urged citizens not to lose hope despite life’s challenges, assuring them of God’s favor.
Quoting from the book of Leviticus, Ositelu emphasized that divine favor would lead to prosperity and fulfillment of God’s covenant with those who remain faithful. He cited biblical figures like Joseph, David, and Job as examples of individuals who experienced God’s favor despite adverse circumstances, reinforcing the message that apparent hopelessness is never final with God.
The Primate congratulated the Abuja Diocesan for the successful dedication of the church. Archbishop Designate Babatunde Ahsaye, Diocesan of Abuja Diocese, also spoke at the event, expressing gratitude for the realization of their vision. He remarked, “This Cathedral stands as a symbol of revival, unity and divine presence in the heart of our nation’s capital. It declares to the world that the church of the Lord is marching on, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”