Church leaders unite towards greater Akwa Ibom, denounce cultism
A new chapter in the resolve of Akwa Ibom State Spiritual Fathers, known as the Fathers of Faith Forum, to strengthen its influence in the State, with greater determination to ensure the dreams of the founding fathers of Akwa Ibom State 34 years ago were realized, has been unveiled.
This new deal was struck on Tuesday at Prelate Emeritus Mbang’s Christian Chapel, Shelter Afrique, Uyo, when the Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Spiritual Fathers Forum, Prelate Emeritus Dr Sunday Mbang CON, led members of the advisory board of Fathers In Faith for Good Governance to pledge commitment to redirect spiritual and social activities bordering the Church in Akwa Ibom State to let the Gospel light shine brighter and liberate the State from the hold of darkness and cult activities.
This resolve was made as he charged a 37 man advisory board of prominent Church leaders to epitomize the virtues, courage and forthrightness of true soldiers of Jesus Christ, in order to reposition themselves as a major stakeholders in the affairs of the State.
The advisory board members, with spread across all denominations, were tasked as custodians of the Church tradition who must make their influence felt in all aspects of life in the State.
Reflecting on the dreams of the founding fathers of the State, Prelate Emeritus Mbang stated: “With your renewed efforts and sacrifices put together, their dream will be realized.”
Adding that, “Christianity in Akwa Abasi Ibom State will become a major stake holder in all that will happen in this State sooner than later, be it in spirituality, in economics, in developments, in social services and in politics.”
The advisory board of Church leaders, Mbang CON said was a necessity because of the imperative of rescuing Christians from wrong doctrines and practices that have pervaded many congregations in the State.
He said: “Concerning the day to day lives of the Christian and their leaders, who over-populate the worship centers, churches, worship places and prayer houses in Akwa Abasi Ibom State; are they what were expected of them by Jesus Christ, the owner of all these places; what you see and what are your experiences?”
He denounced cultism, noting that, “cults, secret societies, dangerous drugs, diabolic practices and other satanic evils are part and parcel of the lives of many sons and daughters here,” and that the board members must ensure that young people in the State are liberated from the shackles of evil.
He warned that unless the advisory board members take urgent steps to redress the situation, falsehood will continue to thrive in the land and turn out a large population of fake Christians, who would rather showcase lust for money, power and materialism than love for fellow believers.
In his remarks, President General of Fathers In Faith for Good Governance, Prelate Prof Isaiah Issong, lauded Mbang for sacrificing his time and resources to ensure the Church in Akwa Ibom State return to the noble path of discipline and virtues. He admitted that the Fathers In Faith for Good Governance, a begotten adult children of Fathers of Faith Forum, was strengthened by the integrity of members of the advisory board and pledge the group’s support for the task of reshaping the body of Christ in the state.
Prelate Issong, who described Prelate Emeritus Dr Sunday Mbang CON as the highly preferred doyen of Akwa Ibom State, said the group will work towards good governance, peace and harmony of Christians.
Prayers were offered for the success of Governor Udom Emmanuel’s succession plan, sustenance of peace and Pastor Umo Eno, described as one of their own.
Also, Prelate Emeritus Dr Sunday Mbang CON led the board members to dedicate the Secretariat Complex of Fathers In Faith for Good Governance at Ewet Housing Estate, Uyo.
