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T.B. Joshua Honours in Israel and Greece

TB Joshua receiving award in Israel

After the recent two days South Korea crusade in Sky Dome by Prophet T.B Joshua, the Prophet was suspicious absent from the pastors Conferences organised specifically for the Korea’s Pastors. There it was announced the Prophet will be holding his next crusade in Peru, but since then Prophet T.B. Joshua has not been seen in public nor appear in the SCOAN live Sunday services.

To the amazement of SCOAN members and Emmanuel.tv viewers all over the world, a video was shown of Prophet T.B. Joshua visits to the nation of Israel, where he received an award for his ministry outstanding humanitarian works. T.B Joshua also visited Greece, where he went to the Biblical historic sites including the City of Philippi where Paul and Silas were jailed, and from there the Prophet prayed for viewers all over the world.

Post on the T.B. Joshua ministries official Facebook page, explains why the Prophet visits those biblical nations, the reasons for the awards and the biblical historical site. The following Statement bellow was posted on the SCOAN official Facebook page:
.

After the recent earthquake in Ecuador Prophet, T.B. Joshua and Emmanuel TV Partners reached out by chartering a cargo plane which carried 20 tonnes of emergency relief to distressed areas affected by the devastating earthquake. Apart from bringing immediate relief aid, rebuilding of a school and other constructions are taking place. An Israeli rescue and relief organization recognized by the United Nations, ZAKA had taken cognizance of this and numerous other charitable deeds done by Prophet T.B. Joshua and the Emmanuel TV Team.

ZAKA’s chairman, Rabbi Yehuda Meshi Zahav came to The SCOAN last week and escorts Prophet T.B. Joshua to Israel to award him for his efforts and to also invite him to partner with them to advance the work of God in the nation Israel.

During his visit, Prophet T.B. Joshua held meetings with a number of government officials, including the Mayor of Bethlehem – Mrs Vera Baboun, Mr Ayoob Kara – the Deputy Minister of Regional Cooperation in the Government of Israel and his team, Ambassador Ran Ichay – Senior Deputy Director to Prime Minister Netanyahu and Mr Rafi Eitan – Former Mossad Intelligence Officer, who hosted the Prophet in his home.

After his visit to Israel, Prophet T.B. Joshua stopped in Greece where he visited Biblical sites including the City of Philippi where Paul and Silas were jailed and released after singing praise to God while in chains. He took some moments to pray for viewers whilst at this holy place. Indeed, for those whose lives are centered on Christ the best is always yet to come

.Also, another facebook post was posted which show Prophet T.B. Joshua receiving a gift from Mrs Vera Baboun, the first female Mayor of Bethlehem with the following statement:

T.B. Joshua receiving a gift from Mrs Vera Baboun

Prophet T.B. Joshua receiving a gift from Mrs Vera Baboun, the first female Mayor of Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ!

“This relationship will open the door for Emmanuel TV partners worldwide to visit the nation of Israel for pilgrimage.”

2018: Adeboye Prophesies Hope For Nigeria

General Overseer, Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye has prophesied hope for Nigeria in 2018.

Speaking at the Crossover Service at the Redemption Camp, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway early Monday morning, Adeboye prophesied that before the end of 2018, there would be rays of hope that all would still be well.

The man of God also prophesied that significant Goliath would fall this year and that erstwhile stubborn mountains would move before the children of God.

On the international scene, Adeboye said there would be less fire outbreaks, but more floods globally.

He also prophesied that there would be misunderstandings among nations of the world, but said there would be no war, while calling for prayers against assassination attempts globally.

On the individual level, the man of God said “many people will wake up to realize that their future is not in the hands of any government, a lot of lost grounds will be reclaimed. Saboteurs will be disgraced and dismissed.”

However, during his sermon, Adeboye said this year would “be your best so far in Jesus Name, Amen. In the Name that is above every other name, you will be world shakers.

“The Devil knows it that you are more than a conqueror. One of the biggest problems of children of God is that the Devil believes God more than them.”

Culled from PM News

TB Joshua Bags Dominican Republic Highest Awards

Amid a resounding ovation, the Senate of the Dominican Republic has conferred the chamber’s highest awards on the founder and spiritual head of the Synagogue Church of All Nations, Prophet Temitope Balogun Joshua.

This was made known at the end of the first session of the two-day crusade held at the Central Olympic Stadium, Felix Sanchez, located in the nation’s capital of Santo Domingo, on Friday, November 24, 2017.

While reading the letters of conferment of the Senate and Congress awards, the event had in attendance representatives of the governments of Russia, Spain, Brazil, Paraguay, Haiti, among others.

The Senate argued, among other things, that it reached the resolution of the conferment of the award on the cleric considering Prophet Joshua’s immense contributions to the growth and development of humanity, his wonderful and relentless social work which he had tirelessly extended to impoverished regions of the world, his large donations to help widows, orphans, the destitute, the elderly and the physically challenged. Chief among the mention of the Senate was the humanitarian work spearheaded by the prophet after the 2010 Haiti earthquake, including supports to India, Ghana and the Philippines following various disasters.

The Senate further extolled the unrelenting commitment of the cleric in engendering global peace and therefore made him the spiritual guide of the nation.

While accepting the award in the company of his wife, Prophet Joshua thanked the government and people of the Dominican Republic for such recognition promising that he would continue to pray for the country while also making it his second home.

“I am very delighted. I am also very grateful to the government and people of the Dominican Republic. I dedicate this award to the people of this country. I will continue to pray for you and I will ensure that this country is my second home,” the cleric said.

Earlier, the crusade venue witnessed a mammoth crowd of worshippers, government officials, politicians and the entire strata of the human society. Many had travelled far and wide to hear the cleric preach and pray for the sick and other miracle-seekers.

The crowd had continued to swell with over 60,000 participants in attendance. Despite the human traffic, no untoward incident occurred.

In his message, Prophet Joshua, taking his text from Romans 5:2 of the Holy Bible, called on his immediate and virtual listeners, to ensure that they sought the kingdom of God first while also seeking the happiness and joy of their neighbours.

“We live in a world where people measure their happiness with material possession. But this is not so. You must measure your happiness by ensuring the happiness of others. This is the example that Jesus Christ has set for us. You can bless others with your smile, your money, your material possession or even other things. Put a smile on people’s faces and you will be glad,” he said.

During the prayer session, many who had various ailments and had travelled both far and wide were attended to by the cleric who laid his hands on them “in the name of Jesus”.

Apostle Suleiman Bags US Highest Honour

Apostle Suleiman Displays his award

Leader of the delegation and Rep., John Richard C. King said the honour, which is the highest given to non-residents of South Carolina was sequel to approval of the House of Representatives of the State  in recognition of Apostle Suleman’s contribution to humanity

“Apostle Suleman won this highest  honor not only  because he is noted as a great social worker with outstanding performances in outreach programmes but also his passion for giving without borders” “Apostle Suleman is so privileged, because there are a lot of people out there who are equally blessed if not more but are not willing to do,” noted a member of the award committee. Apostle Suleman, at the ceremony, dedicated the award to God, his better half and partner, Dr. Lizzy Johnson Suleman as well as members of the Omega Fire Ministries, worldwide.


A letter exclusively obtained by Vanguard, dated June 8, 2017, conveying the approval of the House and signed by Richard C. King, Chairman South Carolina Legislators Black Caucus, also indicated that the state was looking forward to hosting Apostle Suleman at its Capitol Hill. Excerpt of the letter read thus: “We would like to confer upon you the Honorary Citizenship of South Carolina for being an accomplished humanitarian. This is the highest honour given to non residents of the State of South Carolina. “We look forward to hosting you at the South Carolina State Capitol and exploring future partnerships with you and the State of South Carolina.”

Apostle Suleman is also expected to have a meeting with senators representing the State later tonight. The meeting will have in attendance the State’s lawmakers to be led by Rep. John C. King who is representing South Carolina. Others in the list include Rep. Harold Love, representing Tennessee, and Hon. Dr. Dee Dawkins-Haigler, representing Atlanta-Georgia. Suleman’s Communications Manager, Phrank Shaibu, in a reaction, thanked the government and people of the State of South Carolina for finding Apostle Suleman worthy of such a high honour, noting that it is also an indication of the acceptance of the message of salvation which Omega Fire Ministries has taken to the United States and other parts of the world. “We are grateful and elated that the message of salvation, love and compassion which the servant of God has taken to the United States of America and other parts of the world has been widely accepted and bearing fruits. This honour by the State of South Carolina bears testimony to this reality”, he stated. Shaibu assured members of the church worldwide as well as other well meaning citizens of  Apostle Suleman’s commitment to the values, prayers and lifestyle for which he has become well known and called on them not to relent in praying for the cleric.  

Culled From The Vanguard News

General Overseer of Omega Fire Ministries International, Apostle Johnson Suleman was, earlier today, conferred with an ‘Award and Key Of The State of South Carolina’ which is a Honorary Citizenship by the state of South Carolina, United States of America. The event took place at the Faithful Centre Bible Church, Inglewood, California where Apostle Suleman is holding the region’s edition of his ministry’s life-changing crusade tagged ‘Help From Above’, which holds 

Abiara warns against coup, urges prayers for Buhari

 

The General Evangelist of the Christ Apostolic Church, Prophet Samuel Abiara, has warned against any attempt to topple the government of President Muhammadu Buhari, saying God will resist such a move.

Abiara said rather than plot against the President, the country should look up to God for divine solutions to the country’s woes.

 Speaking in an interview with our correspondent on Saturday, the cleric said there was a need for national prayers for the country’s leaders.

He added that prayers for the nation and its leaders are the focus of a nationwide crusade organised by his church.

The programme has been scheduled to hold between May 22 and 26, 2017.

He said, “God said that our leaders are sick spiritually and physically. God said we should organise prayers nationally so that the leaders do not misbehave. Our leaders should stop involving in acts that displease God because He is the one that enthroned them in positions of authority.

“They must not abuse the privileges of their offices and they should initiate policies that would lead to better welfare for Nigerians.”

Hoodlums raze Redeemed church in Abuja

 The Christian Association of Nigeria (Youth Wing) has given the Federal Government and security agencies one-week ultimatum to identify and prosecute the hoodlums who razed the Redeemed Christian Church of God (Root of David Parish) in Dei Dei, a satellite community in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

YOWICAN threatened that failure to produce the arsonist would force its members to embark on a nationwide protest.

The National President of YOWICAN, Daniel Kadzai, who conducted journalists around the scene of the incident on Friday evening, said it was unfortunate that attacks on Christians and their churches had not been taken seriously.

He said, “I want to express my disappointment in this government for the gross dereliction of its duty. The primary role of government is to provide security to its citizens, irrespective of their religion or ethnicity. But it seems the government has failed in this duty.

“I sincerely want to call on the government to take the issue of church burning, church demolition and attacks on Christians seriously. We do not want to reach a point where we might not be able to control our youths.

“We are therefore giving the government one-week ultimatum to apprehend the perpetrators of this latest attack and prosecute them accordingly.

“All Christian youths across the country would stage a peaceful protest if government continues to exhibit lackadaisical attitude towards the issue, while ignoring the sponsors of the attacks.”

SUNDAY PUNCH observed that the incident occurred seven months after the assassination of a 42-year-old preacher with the RCCG, Evangelist Eunice Elisha Olawale, during an early morning preaching at Gbazango-West area of Kubwa, a satellite town, in the Bwari Area Council on Saturday July 9, 2016.

It was also learnt that the latest attack on the RCCG parish came barely a few weeks after the church was burgled by hoodlums who entered through the ceiling and carted away six ceiling fans, speakers and microphones.

The incident took place in the early hours of Monday, February 13, 2017, around 5am at the church Area Headquarters in Apiawe Village, DeiDei, a few kilometres to Kubwa, one of the satellite towns of the FCT.

The victims were said to have kept sealed leaps for fear of more attacks.

During the  incident which left the church completely razed, the hoodlums allegedly stole musical instruments and other valuables worth millions of naira belonging to the church.

Several calls, SMS and WhatsApp messages to the Police Public Relations Officer (FCT Command), Anjuguri Manzah, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, were not replied.

But the Investigating Police Officer, who simply identified himself as Sergeant Naso, told SUNDAY PUNCH that they were on top of the situation.

“We have been working hard and we are believing God. You know, to carry out an investigation is not always easy. But we believe that with God, those culprits will be arrested.

“So far, we have conducted raiding.We went there and raided people living around the area. We are still on top of it, investigation is still going on and with the help of God, these culprits will be arrested,” he stated.

The pastor in charge of the parish, Stephen Oladele, said he received a distress call from one of his members, informing him that some men had burnt down the church.

“They made away with the generator, musical instruments, chairs, microphones and set the whole structure on fire,” he said.

Culled from Punch News

Buhari will die unless I am not called by God – Nigerian Prophet

Prophet Emmanuel Chukwudi of King of Kings Deliverance Church has again prophesied ‘doom’ on President Muhammadu Buhari.
The prophet also made startling revelations concerning the future of governance in the United States.

Recall that Prophet Chukwudi, among his prophecies for 2017, had said President Buhari would die before 2019 ends..
But the fiery prophet reinstated his stand on the prophecy, saying if Buhari did not die in office, then he (Prophet Chukwudi) was not called by God.
He made the fresh revelation during Sunday’s service at his church in Mgbo Court, Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi state.
He said, “Long time ago, I asked all to pray for their master, that he needed urgent prayers to avert the calamity of death at Aso Rock, but they were lazy.

“No one has bothered to reach me, now see what is happening. They don’t want to come for prayers. Things will get worse.
“I said he will be president, today he has become president, I said he will die, see what is happening.
“Nobody wants to come and see the man of God, no one cares. You think it’s like something you can wish away. You cannot wish it away.
“You people around the president, you are sleeping. You won’t do anything to pray for him.

“Let me tell you, until you come before the man of God, and kneel down and pray for the president, you are also heaping curses upon yourself.
“You think the calamity will visit only him? It will visit those who also heard and refused to do anything to save the president.
“While it’s still early, seek the face of God for the sake of Nigeria for the sake of President Buhari, and save the situation.
“But the Lord has even said that you will suffer due to your obstinate mind.
“Unless one arises to save the president, he shall never rule beyond one term.
“He shall certainly die in office, says the Lord, unless I am not God, says the Lord,” the prophet added.
Speaking further, he said former president of the US, Barack Obama, will join forces with certain elements in a fierce battle to oust President Donald Trump ‘If urgent steps are not taken, I see his presidency shaking.’
“They have vowed to make his government uncomfortable. Obama and other enemies of Trump are the ones behind it, and they are planning to remove him”, he claimed.

Shun Ethnic,Religious Baises,Osinbajo Warned Nigerians

Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has urged Nigerians to shun ethnic or religious biases. Speaking yesterday at the 2017 Murtala Muhammed Memorial lecture in Abuja, Osinbajo expressed regrets that the spirit of the Nigerian project had degenerated to the extent that, “The first question we ask is not what is the worth of a man or a woman, or what he or she can do but where he or she is from or what religious label he is wearing.
According to the acting president, Nigerians should emulate the legacy of the late General Muhammed, who even in his short reign, left indelible marks in the country.
Meanwhile, the Acting President yesterday paid an official visit to Rivers State in continuation of Federal Government’s dialogue with peoples of the Niger Delta.

In Port Harcourt, he declared that the zone required a new vision devoid of the prevailing unhappy circle of discontent that sometimes resulted in violence, vandalism and security response. He said that it was extremely discomforting that the Niger Delta region where he did his National Youths Service Corps 38 years ago was still grappling with the same challenges of underdevelopment and poverty.
He disclosed that the groundbreaking ceremony for the Integrated Contaminated Soil Management Centre provided for by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report will be performed on Thursday in Ogoni.
The acting president reassured the stakeholders that the Federal Government would continue the amnesty programme for ex-militants. In response, Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike said he was in support of the 16-point agenda submitted by the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) to the Federal Government.
Osinbajo will also pay an official visit to Imo State today. A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Sam Onwuemeodo in Owerri yesterday stated that the Acting President would inaugurate “one or two projects, out of more than two thousand verifiable projects” executed by the Governor Rochas Okorocha’s administration.

Culled from The Guardian newspaper

Ogun pastor denies being hypnotised in shrine

The pastor who was allegedly transfixed in a shrine in Ketu community, Ayetoro, in the Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, Wale Fagbire, has denied being struck by idols while destroying the shrine.

At a press conference on Thursday convened by the Christian Association of Nigeria, Ogun State, Fagbire told journalists that he followed a divine instruction he got in a revelation.

Fagbire, who presides over Christ Apostolic Church, (Ona-Iye) in Ayetoro, said he was instructed not to utter a word after destroying the shrines, adding that he was motionless after the ‘divine assignment.’

 

The embattled pastor had on Tuesday, September 20, 2016, told his congregation that he was directed by God to destroy all the shrines in Ketu community.

But, in his attempts to destroy the shrines, he allegedly got stuck in the first set of shrines he entered, prompting people in the area to raise the alarm.

 

Fagbire said he deliberately waited in the shrines for the idol worshippers to see him.

He said, “God told me that I should go to the shrines to bring out those things for the liberation of Ayetoro. God told me to do three things in the shrines.

“That when I get there, I should evacuate, step aside and watch the film. He said I should not say anything when people come out to see me. So, I did as instructed by God on that day.

“I got there around 5am and after I took out those things, God told me to wait and stay and I did.

“God also told me to keep quiet. It was not their gods that held me; it was the idol worshippers that struck me with their charms.

“When I was taken to the palace, I told them that all my actions were directed by God and not human beings or the church of God. Although, they tried many charms on me, none was effective. I am healthy. I followed the instruction of God that I should be quiet and they also know the truth.”

He said when he was taken to the palace of the Alaye of Ayetoro, Oba Abdulaziz, he narrated what happened.

Reacting to the report, the state Chairman of CAN, Bishop Tunde Akin-Akinsanya, said media report of the incident was exaggerated, adding that the briefing was to clear the misconceptions.

The Regional Coordinator of Yewa/Awori, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Apostle Lola Dada, alleged that the idol worshippers asked the pastor’s family to contribute N300,000 while the CAN was asked to pay N200,000, to appease the gods.

Dada, who spoke for the state CAN chairman, said, “He (Pastor Fagbire) was handed over to the police and the police charged the case to court.

“The idol worshipers withdrew the case from the court; they said they cannot take the son of their late Oba to court and the case was withdrawn the same day.”

He alleged that the idol worshippers went to Jesus Triumphant Army Church at Ayetoro which was headed by Pastor Wale Olojede, because the church was close to the shrines Fagbire destroyed.

He said, “They said it was the church that encouraged him to do what he did.

“So, the idol worshippers transferred the aggression to the church. They barricaded the church with sacrifice and palm fronds, but the Christian youths removed them.

“They asked the family of the pastor to pay N300,000 while CAN should bring N200,000 for the sacrifice to appease their gods, but, no money was given to them and peace has returned to the town.”

The police spokesperson, Abimbola Oyeyemi, confirmed that the traditionalists had withdrawn the case.

Culled from The Punch News

20 Things You Didn’t Know About Pastor Adeboye’s Love Life

Pas. Adeboye and wife

The love story of the quintessential General Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, popularly known as Daddy G.O. and his darling wife, Pastor (Mrs.) Folu Adeboye is one that would go down in history as one of the most romantic love stories ever.

Daddy G.O. has not only proved that having God at the centre of your life is key but he has also proved that real men still exist. As they celebrate the faithfulness of God on their 49th anniversary this year, here are 20 things you would never believe Daddy G.O. does:

Adeboye married twice. Not what you’re thinking. He had a traditional marriage first then a white wedding in church about two years after.

Adeboye couldn’t afford a wedding ring then. So he promised his wife later that she would never lack anything and has since kept that promise.

When Adeboye could finally afford a wedding ring, he refused to buy or wear one. He also mandated his last son, Adeleke Adeboye, to do same.

Adeboye wouldn’t eat food or drink anywhere his wife doesn’t approve first.

Adeboye prefers his meals freshly cooked daily.

Adeboye expects his wife to fast with him when he is fasting. (We guess this saves on food expenses.)

Adeboye eats dinner between 4-00 p.m. and 5.00 p.m. and that’s it for the day.

Adeboye sometimes goes into the kitchen to give moral support and taste the food. He also advises on which food needs more seasoning or salt.

At least three times every year, Adeboye leaves his whole family for about five days—no phone calls, no sex, no distractions—even his wife is not allowed around him. (We all know whose face he goes to seek.)

Adeboye used to be fat; his weight was so disturbing that his wife begged him to do something about it.

Adeboye started making efforts toward reducing his weight by totally avoiding fizzy drinks and alcohol. Now, he only drinks water, fresh fruit juice and tea.

Adeboye would never leave Nigeria and is never more than a 2-hours’ drive or flight away from his wife on the month of her birthday. This is one of the promises he made to her when they got married.

Adeboye still gives monthly household expenses fees to his wife till date. This even increases year by year as inflation goes up.

Adeboye also gives his wife monthly self-maintenance allowance.

When he is at home, Adeboye kisses his wife every morning and prays for her even before coming out to see anyone else.

Adeboye always buys marching watches, suit cases. Everything he needs to get, he always makes sure he gets her own version of it.

Adeboye always puts his wife first before his children. Besides, they will and have all left home anyway.

Adeboye has never stopped appreciating his wife for her sacrifice over the years and putting her dreams on hold so he could become who he is today hence he never leaves her behind in anything and everything he does.

How Adeboye’s marriage teachings caused stir

The ongoing annual convention of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, on Tuesday, received enormous publicity. The publicity, however, came in a controversial manner.

The General Overseer of the church, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, in a message on marriage, stirred a widespread debate on social media, with thousands taking to the Internet to protest or support his positions on the categories of people Christians should not marry.

Adeboye, who is fondly called Daddy G.O. by members of his church, advised a congregation of bachelors and spinsters at the convention to avoid marrying certain individuals in order to enjoy their marriages.

 

Videos of the teachings, which were uploaded on different social media sites, received huge ‘share’.

 

The pastor urged bachelors to shun ladies who could not pray “non-stop” for at least an hour. He also advised them against marrying “lazy” women as well as those who could not cook.

 

The cooking aspect particularly caught the attention of feminists. They took protested the pastor’s remark, saying they were not supposed to be consigned to kitchens just because they were women.

 

Adeboye also warned ladies against accepting marriage proposals by “jobless” bachelors. He said those who could not earn incomes should not marry.

A social media activist, Asuquo Ulo, said the teachings were part of unacceptable thinking that characterised the age.

The tweeter disagreed with the cleric’s position, saying “marriage is really beyond jobs, cooking and prayers”.

As far as Chinye Onwordi, a Twitter user, is concerned, Adeboye’s advice had solved a persisting puzzle on the social media.

“Whether Nigerian ladies agree to cook when they marry or not, Adeboye has spoken the truth nobody should shy away from,” he tweeted.

One Ahmed Isah also wrote, “Adeboye, we thank you for ending this long debate. You spoke from a spiritual realm, not as a mere mortal.”

As of Tuesday evening, many sites had unveiled online polls with a view to assessing the acceptability of Adeboye’s marriage ‘prescriptions’.

In one of the videos, Adeboye advised, “Marry a prayer warrior! Don’t marry any girl who cannot pray for one hour non-stop. Don’t marry a girl who is lazy! If she is lazy when she is single, what will happen if she is married?”

In another one, he warned, “Don’t marry a man who has no job. Before God gave Adam Eve, he gave him a job. He said, ‘This is the garden, keep it.’ So when anybody comes to you and say, ‘Sister, thus saith the Lord, you are going to be the star in my firmament,’ ask him — ‘What is your job?’

“If he tells you he is a contractor, ask him to show you evidence of all the contracts he has done because the contract he is talking about is you. He wants to live off you.

“Don’t be a fool. If he hasn’t got a steady income, don’t marry him. A man is to provide for the house and not the other way round. If he has no income, he should not marry. Those who do not work should not eat. And if they can’t eat, they can’t even marry.”

Adeboye trended widely on social media platforms as the issues he raised were scrutinised by his fans and foes. The videos became the toast of members of the online community.

Adeboye’s popularity rating, by online metrics, soared. He also enjoyed a huge Google search, as bloggers dissected thousands of comments for catchy headlines for their posts.

 

Culled from The Punch newspaper,Nigeria

Mbaka attacks Buhari, says Nigerians may not vote for him in 2019

Enugu Catholic priest, and Spiritual Director of the Adoration Ministry, Enugu State, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, has warned President Muhammadu Buhari that Nigerians will not vote for him in 2019 if he does not address the high level of hunger and suffering  in the country.

Mbaka has been one of Buhari’s most vocal supporters since he asked Nigerians to reject the incumbent, Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party during the 2015 presidential pol and predicted Buhari’s victory.

But, in a surprising turn of events, Mbaka attacked Buhari in a recent message, details of which were obtained by journalists on Tuesday night.

 

In the message, Mbaka noted that there was too much suffering in the country, and faulted the President for not appointing the right people.

 

He also accused the President of listening to the wrong advice.

 

The message partly read, “The issue is that Mbaka is speaking as the Spirit leads him – there is hunger everywhere.  My job is to tell leaders the truth, the landlords are crying, the tenants are lamenting, sellers are crying, buyers are lamenting – there is hunger on the streets.

 

“I can’t keep quiet when things are going wrong.

“I am telling the President to look around him and know those who are advising him rightly and those who are telling him that there is no trouble.

“The President should know that there is trouble – if things continue like this, in the next election, nobody will vote for him.

“Whether they like it or not, I am speaking the raw truth.

“If the President should have somebody like me and he cannot be talking with me, then there is a problem.

“There is a problem somewhere; somebody who can advise you without asking for anything and he is representing the poor masses in the country and he won’t tell you lies.

“He will praise you when you are doing well and when you are not doing well, he will look at you in the face and tell you.”

Continuing, he said, “I don’t need the President; I need God, I need the Holy Spirit, I need Jesus; there is suffering everywhere, people are suffering.

“To feed is now a problem, and an hungry man is an angry man.

“Hunger and anger will lead to danger.

“So, let him know whether he can do away with some advisers around him and bring in the people who are experts in economic revamp.

“There are people who are experts in that; let them begin to empower people, people are not empowered, they are still walking around in vicious circles, planning and planning and planning.”

Mbaka said there were  no spaces left in mortuaries across the country.

“Hunger is everywhere, many neighbours don’t eat again, many are being attacked by hunger, hunger is becoming a normal thing and there are people responsible for this.

“Mortuary and ambulance business is now thriving because many cannot afford drugs.

“In today’s Nigeria, many are becoming hawkers, who will buy from you, with what?

“Everyday, more pipelines  are being blown, the Avengers are at work and up till now, there is no solution.

“You know when certain things begin to happen, you begin to ask some questions, somebody like me will begin to ask – when will this end?

“If it continues in the next three months, there will be no money to pay salaries – the vicious effect is disastrous and when salaries cannot be paid, teachers will come home, students will stop going to school, there will be more kidnappings, more hooliganism, more armed robbery, more prostitution, immorality will be on the increase.”

He urged Buhari to sit up and stop going after the leadership of the Senate.

Mbaka equally bemoaned the continuous depreciation in the value of the naira.

“So, the President should sit up – there is a red light blinking on the country.

“The issue of Saraki and Ekweremadu, nobody wants to listen to such stories any more, whether Saraki is the President of the Senate or Ekweremadu is not this or that, the countrymen are tired of such stories.

“We need economic experts, gurus, sages that are sincere, who can come in and think about our economic revamp and judicial reformation.”

 

CUlled from The Punch,Nigeria

Muslim doctor in Pakistan receives death threats after saving life of dying Christian man

A Muslim medical doctor from Pakistan tended to a dying Christian man at the hospital, and got harassed and received death threats because of it.
The unnamed doctor said the Christian man arrived at the hospital, badly needing hemodialysis.
Because no one else was providing him the care he needed, the doctor gave him the dialysis using medicine donated to the hospital through a form of Islamic alms-giving called zakaat

Immediately after administering the medicine, a nurse got angry at him because the patient turned out to be a Christian, which means the patient was forbidden from receiving or using Islamic alms.

The doctor explained he wasn't aware of such regulations and that he didn't know the man was a Christian. He bought new medicine to replace what he used, hoping it would put an end to the controversy.
"They attributed my lack of knowledge about the alms laws to the fact that I belong to a minority Muslim sect," the doctor wrote on The Guardian.
He didn't know it was just the beginning of what was going to be a string of harassments and death threats that was coming his way.
His department conducted an inquiry about the situation, during which he was discriminated against. Furthermore, he earned the ire of an organization that gives donations to the hospital.
"The workplace discrimination gave way to threatening phone calls and vandalism of my car and bike," he said in the article. "I was threatened with death at a medical conference hosted by the chair of the same NGO which had complained about me."
To make matters worse, the people he offended discovered he was living in Pakistan alone with his wife because his family had all migrated to the U.S.
This made him feel vulnerable. Eventually, he and his wife decided to seek political asylum in the U.S., where they are now staying.
"Humanity is the core of any religion," he concluded. "I faced backlash that would change my life forever. But, in the name of humanity, I deem that it was all worth it."
Religious persecution in Pakistan is high. Converting a Muslim person to another faith is a capital crime, and killing someone who left the Muslim faith is considered as an honor, a report said.
Pakistan ranks sixth in Open Doors' World Watch List, which identifies the countries where Christians are most persecuted. Islamic extremism is the driving force behind the persecution.

North Korea bans materials with Christian cross markings

 

 Materials and goods bearing a symbol that looks like the Christian cross are no longer allowed in North Korea.
Border guards will immediately confiscate goods that have such markings, even those that seem innocent, such as women's clothes and accessories that have cross-like designs.

 "These products are more likely to be confiscated during customs checks," a source from Pyongyang told Radio Free Asia. "Some designs on women's clothing can look a lot like a cross, depending on who is looking at it. Cross designs also appear on women's hairpins and hair bands and on men's neckties."
The local source, who sold goods brought in from China, added that prior to the new regulation, they only inspected their goods for labels showing they came from South Korea, which the North considers as its rival.

Now they also had to check if the items they sold had markings similar to a cross.
This report was verified by another source from North Hamgyong, who said customs officers seized goods that have a cross mark.
Unfortunately, if their goods are confiscated, they couldn't complain anywhere, the source said.
The source also reported that people wearing accessories that appear to have the cross symbol are taken by authorities.
Christians are highly persecuted in North Korea. The country, for the last 14 years, has taken the number one spot on the list of countries where Christians experience extreme persecution, according to Open Doors, an organization supporting persecuted Christians worldwide.
The persecution in the country is so severe that even students writing the plus sign must ensure that the vertical and horizontal lines have the same length. A longer vertical line would make the symbol look like a cross.
A 2016 report from the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom said that North Korea, with a "deplorable" record in human rights, is one of the "most repressive regimes" in the world.
Christians are viewed as a threat, that's why the government "reserves its most severe persecution" for them.
Those who are caught praying and singing worship songs are jailed or sent to labor camps, where they are treated more harshly than other prisoners.
There are "tens of thousands of Christians" suffering in labor camps all over North Korea, the report said.

Culled from The Christian Times

How Christians can help heal the nation

 

Evangelist Anne Graham Lotz enumerated at least four ways ordinary righteous people can do in the face of the threatening anarchy that's grappled the nation.
The daughter of the renowned preacher, Billy Graham, shared her thoughts on her blog Monday as she watched the violent scenes that have been playing out in the U.S. for the last weeks. These included the deaths of African-Americans at the hands of white police officers and the targeted deaths and shootings of white cops by African-Americans.

 "What are we to do? Is there anything ordinary, good people can do?" Lotz penned down her own questions for the Lord.
The 68-year-old founder of AnGel Ministries and author of 11 books said the answers then came to her when she prayed.

Prayer, Lotz said, would be the first thing Christians can do right away.
She quoted Paul who challenged fellow believers in Ephesians 6:18, "With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying."
"It's time for you and me to establish a set-aside time of consistent, daily prayer," said Lotz.
Even as Lotz believed that America's wicked ways – particularly its three national sins she listed as abortion, abandonment of Israel, and the homosexuality agenda – have brought it to "deep, deep trouble," she asserted that America's still "not too far gone" and can still return to God through prayers.
Next, Lotz urged Christians to "pick up the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God" just as instructed by Ephesians 6:17. She added that reading God's Word every day would strengthen one's faith.
"But don't just read it," said Lotz and added, "Apply it. Obey it. Live it out."
The third thing Christians can do would be to "pursue righteousness" which translates to standing up for the "right thing" or the values of justice, truth, kindness and love.
Finally, Lotz reminded Christians of their Great Commission to proclaim Jesus.
"Be ready at a moment's notice to share the Gospel and give a reason for the Hope that is within you," she said.
For her parting words, Lotz urged Christians not to let evil win by doing nothing.
"Please," she implored. "Don't do nothing. Do something!"
Culled from the Christian Times

Gunmen abduct RCCG pastor during Sunday service

 

 There was panic at a parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God at Santos bus stop in the Isawo, Ikorodu, Lagos State, on Sunday after  some gunmen walked in and abducted the pastor during the service.

PUNCH  learnt that the pastor, identified only as Bajomo, was whisked away by the gunmen, who came to the church as if they were new members.

Our correspondent learnt that the pastor, who was abducted around 7am, was the first to reach the parish and was preparing for a workers’ meeting which usually preceded the Sunday service.

It was gathered that when the other members arrived at the church, the pastor was nowhere to be found.

 Our correspondent gathered that the matter was reported at the Owutu Police Division.

A witness, who identified herself only as Esther, said the gunmen wore attractive clothes as if they had come for the church service.

She said, “The pastor came earlier around 7am to prepare for a workers’ meeting. The shocking thing was that the men walked in quietly like new members.

“They dressed like people who had come to church. They had Bibles with them. They did not shoot or display any weapon. It was when they got to the pastor that they brought out their guns and ordered him to come with them.

 “The pastor got to the church before anyone else and only three members had arrived before the abduction.

“We discovered after they had left that they were Ijaw militants. They have taken away our pastor. Some members, after the incident, went to the pastor’s house to inform his family members.

“It is a sad occurrence in our area that residents are being abducted, raped, assaulted and even killed every day. It is a problem that has been left to become a calamity.

“I think the state government and the police really need to do something about these recurring incidents. We are at the mercy of the Ijaw boys.”

Our correspondent learnt that the Sunday service did not hold at the parish as a result of the pastor’s abduction.

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Dolapo Badmos, said she would get back to our correspondent on the matter.

She, however, had yet to get back as of press time.

The RCCG Head, Media and Public Relations, Pastor Segun Adegbiji, confirmed the abduction.

He said the church would invite God’s anger on those who troubled its members and pastors.

He said, “RCCG will not take abduction or murder of our pastors and members any more.

Culled from The Punch,Nigeria

Priest killed in France church attack

A priest was killed on Tuesday after a hostage situation at a church near the northern French city of Rouen, a police source said.

The French interior ministry said that two hostage-takers were “neutralised” in the attack in the town of Saint-Etienne-du-Rouvray.

French President Francois Hollande and Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve were on their way to the scene, their offices said.
The incident comes as France remains on high alert nearly two weeks after Tunisian Mohamed Lahouaiej Bouhlel mowed down a crowd of people celebrating Bastille Day in the southern city of Nice, killing 84 and injuring over 300.

The attack was the third major strike on France in 18 months and was claimed by the Islamic State group.

Murdered Redeemed preacher for burial on her birthday

About two weeks after her assassination by alleged Islamic fundamentalists in Kubwa area of the Federal Capital Territory, the family of the late Eunice Olawale Elisha on Tuesday announced that the deceased would be buried on July 23, 2016.

A brother to the deceased, Mr. Akun Oluwadare, told journalists that the family had concluded arrangement to properly bury her on July 23, a day that “coincided with her birthday celebration.”

The 42-year-old mother of seven and pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God, was murdered while preaching the gospel of Christ at Gbazango-West area of Kubwa.

 

Oluwadare said, “The Christian wake will come up on Friday, July 22 by 5pm at the RCCG Provincial Headquarters, Phase Three, Kubwa. The burial service is fixed for Saturday, July 23, which coincided with her birthday by 12pm at the same venue. Interment will follow immediately at Gudu Cemetry, Abuja.”

 

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Hijab: Court strikes out CAN’s application for stay of execution

  An Osun State High Court has struck out the application for stay of execution filed by the Christian Association of Nigeria against the judgment which allowed Muslim students to wear hijab in all public schools in the state.
Justice Jide Falola on Tuesday struck out the application following the filing of another stay of execution before the Court of Appeal sitting in Akure by the CAN.
Counsel for CAN,  Ayo Laogun, informed the court that his client had filed a fresh application for stay of execution before the Court of Appeal, Akure

He applied to withdraw the application for stay of execution, saying, “in view of Order 4 Rules 10 & 11 of the Court of Appeal Rules 2011, the lower court can not take the application

Counsel for the 1st to 5th respondents, Governor Rauf Aregbesola, Ministry of Education and three others, Mr. Jide Obisakin, did not raise any objection to the withdrawal of the application.


The judge subsequently struck out the case.
Meanwhile, the  Chairman of the CAN in the state,  Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, has called on Christians across the state to be law-abiding pending the determination of the case before the appellate court.
He said he wanted the state government to ensure that status-quo was  maintained in the state public schools.
Ogundiya said the CAN would pursue the matter to a logical conclusion and urged his members to be “vigilant and prayerful for a successful conclusion of the suit at the appellate court.”

He said he wanted the state government to ensure that status-quo was  maintained in the state public schools.
Ogundiya said the CAN would pursue the matter to a logical conclusion and urged his members to be “vigilant and prayerful for a successful conclusion of the suit at the appellate court.”
Justice Falola had on July 8 advised lawyers of the two parties in the case to warn their clients against destabilising the judiciary.
Falola said, “I want to draw your attention to an issue, I want you lawyers to admonish your clients not to use religion to destabilise the judiciary. Judges have religions they chose to have and some don’t have.
“Shopping for a particular type of judge to handle your case based on their religions is deplorable and should be condemned. Judiciary is a temple without bias. We deal with the law and religions are dropped at the gate of the courts.
“It is easy for Nigerians to resort to blackmail whenever things don’t happen the way they want them to happen.”

Culled from The Punch,Nigeria