Independence Anniversary : Clergy Emphasizes Constructive Criticism as Gov Otu Sues for Peace, Unity
By Akpan Udo-Inyang
CALABAR -National Vice Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria( PFN),South South, Archbishop Emmah Gospel Isong, has cautioned Nigerians against divisive speeches that castigates and criminalise leaders.
Nigerians, should rather engage leaders and government through constructive, solution-oriented criticism, Isong stated today at an Interdenominational thanksgiving Service held at the Christian Central Chapel International, Faith Mansion World Centre, Ikot Eneobong, 8 Miles, Calabar, to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Archbishop Isong, who is also the President of Christian Central Chapel, encouraged Nigerians to remember God’s faithfulness, remain hopeful, and continue praying for wisdom for leaders, peace across communities, protection for security personnel, and greater opportunities for young people.
He also asked all to remain united, reject hatred and violence, and speak positively about Cross River State and Nigeria at all times.
In his sermon, titled “Using Your Past Testimonies to Unlock Your New Miracle,” , Archbishop Isong, who drew his message from Exodus 15:22–27, recounted the Israelites’ experience at Marah following their crossing of the Red Sea.
Archbishop Emmah Isong
He noted that although the Israelites encountered bitterwater in the wilderness, God provided a solution through Moses, transforming the water into a source of sustenance, an account, he said, demonstrates how past testimonies can strengthen faith in difficult moments.
Cross River State governor, Senator Bassey Otu, who spoke at the event through the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Elvert Ayambem, called on Nigerians to remain committed to peace, unity, and the collective responsibility of building a nation that future generations will be proud to inherit.
Describing the anniversary as an opportunity to appreciate God’s faithfulness and reflect on the sacrifices of past heroes, Otu said: “Independence is more than the remembrance of a date in our history. It is a reminder of the sacrifices of those who came before us and of the responsibility placed on our generation to build a nation that future generations will be proud to inherit.”
He noted that despite the challenges Nigeria has faced since 1960, the national spirit has endured. “Nigeria has travelled a long road since 1960. Yet, through it all, the Nigerian spirit has endured. Our people remain resilient, enterprising and deeply committed to the hope of a better country.,” he maintained.
The Governor, reaffirmed his People First agenda, stating that “We will continue to work deliberately towards a state where our people can live in peace, work with dignity and look to the future with confidence. But the government cannot do this alone.”
He called for collective effort from the Church, traditional institutions, the private sector, civil society, young people, and citizens at large to advance the development of Cross River State and Nigeria.
Otu further called for prayers for wisdom for leaders, peace in communities, protection for security personnel, and comfort for struggling families..
On the subject of diversity, the governor urged Nigerians to embrace their differences as a source of strength rather than division.
“Our diversity should not divide us. We may come from different ethnic groups, speak different languages and practise different faiths, but we share one country and one collective destiny,” he said.
He, further called on citizens to reject violence, uphold the rule of law, and remain hopeful and committed to nation-building.