Violence and repression in our Country

‘We looked for peace, but no good came, for a time of healing, but behold terror. We acknowledge our wickedness, O Lord, and the iniquity of our fathers, for we have sinned against you.’ Jeremiah 14:19-20

Introduction

The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has relentlessly spoken out more and more against violence and repression in our country. At the National Catholic Prayer Pilgrimage for Nigeria in Abuja held from June 1^st – 2^nd 2012, the Speaker Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev. Anthony J. V. Obinna states: ‘In asking me to address you and our nation on the Challenge of Reconciliation, Forgiveness and Peace, the Catholic Bishops of Nigeria, with whose mandate I speak, really stand publicly before God on behalf of Nigeria with the look of shame, but in the spirit of humility and repentance for all the blood of fellow Nigerians, needlessly shed in this country ever since we were bonded together as Nigerians. … For all our iniquities, past and present, hidden or known, we hereby ask for God’s compassion and forgiveness’. [1]

Yes, war causes evil and never causes good. War and violence around the globe kill millions every day. It is a really staggering and disturbing reality which doesn’t have to be so because we - kings and commoners have the power to change this if we become genuinely concerned and committed for peace. Therefore, everyone must do what  they can do to avoid and prevent it. Pope Benedict XVI in His Message with regards to the 14^th World Day of the Sick  draws our attention to the challenges these problems present: ‘To the psychological unrest that affects today a fifth of all humanity and that has become a real crisis for man’s social wellbeing.’ With regards to the causes of the unrest he states: ‘The ongoing wars in different parts of the world, the continuous appalling natural disasters and the spreading of terrorism as well as causing a terrifying number of deaths, have produced in many of survivors psychological traumas from which any recovery seems now impossible… In the more economically advanced countries the specialists recognize also as a cause to this unrest the negative influence of the loss of moral values.’

Some Events following the December 2011 Madalla tragedy

The months following December 2011, since the Christmas Day Madalla Bomb blast tragedy at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Niger State killing many and wounding several others had been disturbing and tragic in the History of Nigeria. We are passing through most critical crisis in recent times. Boko Haram insurgency emerged and fear, suspicion, mistrust and misery swept the whole country like a wild fire. Boko haram problem reared its ugly head in a big way raking havoc and creating massive destruction of lives and property; thousands of people died; so many are fleeing to escape massacre and persecution; we also experienced within these months the Post Election and Oil Subsidy Crisis which claimed many lives of our innocent citizens; and the recent is the Dana plane crash national tragedy where so many innocent lives perished. It is a disturbing scenario and our people have become desperate. It would be impossible to sum up the problems of our country at the moment, but some of the challenges are visibly obvious - insecurity, ethnic and religious strife, food and energy shortages,  economic development and poverty eradication,  human rights abuse, the horrors of Boko Haram, blind violence, repression and terrorism. In fact, the doom and gloom of Boko haram is spreading its dark shadow across the federation. The horrible experiences we have had are extremely touching, painful and agonizing. Indeed, this is a moment of sorrow for us and our hearts are heavy over the sad events.

Endless tales of woes, blood bath and reprisal attacks

The whole experience is painful and much too traumatic to capture in a brief piece such as this. Recent events of the gruesome terrorists attack in our nation, and the increasing wave of socio-political and ethno-religious crisis threatening our national security and corporate existence lately calls for serious attention and deep prayer for our innocent citizens. This string of attacks across the country with particular reference to the North, has assumed higher dimension witnessing spates of bombings, kidnappings, assassinations, abductions, gun attacks on key point and strategic areas of interest – Military formations, Churches, Schools, Market places, Banks and private residences by unidentified gun men on motor cycles, who trail their victims to attack and inflict serious injuries on them. The recent is the Sunday June 11, 2012 triple Bomb attacks of three Churches in Trikania and Zaria all in Kaduna State carried out by Islamist militant sect of Boko haram and the reprisal attacks which left many dead and property destroyed. Boko haram struck and left on its heels pains, misery, questions upon questions. A twenty four hour curfew was imposed by the Kaduna State government to prevent further attacks and destruction. But wait a minute! How long shall we continue with this endless tales of carnage, blood bath and reprisal attacks? How long shall the rioters in counter reprisals and attacks continue to defy the 24 hours curfew imposed by the State government?

Sharing together our fears, dreams, struggles and hopes

Following the relaxation of the curfew by four hours on Friday, from 12 noon to 4.00pm to enable the Moslem Brethren fulfill their obligation of Friday Congregational Worship, People in Kaduna Metropolis who have been under a general detention and house arrest for three days were seen rushing to the market to replenish their foodstuff and other domestic essentials. Christians were seen buying from moslems, and moslems from Christians such perishable items like tomatoes, pepper, onion, vegetable, banana, garden - egg and plantain without discrimination, and sharing together their mutual fears, dreams, aspirations, struggles and hope. What in the first place would have spark off this tension and senseless attacks that led to our brothers and sisters being butchered and allowed to rot in the gutters, they questioned? ‘This is really horrible!’ said an observer as all hurried to scamper away to avoid any possible spiraling violence still lurking around. This feeling of separation leaves us miserable and unhappy.

Conclusion

Ignorance I think accounts for this callousness and recklessness. No religion preaches hate, but some religious leaders do. They interpret Holy Books to proclaim their ignorance as faith and doctrine. Hate preachers who preach bloodletting to stir up trouble leading to disaffection should be carefully identified, closely monitored and prosecuted for inciting trouble. I appeal to all of us citizens (educated and uneducated, rich and poor, lowly and great), religious leaders (Christians and Moslems), politicians, and journalists to stand united with one voice to call a spade and spade, name injustice wherever we see it, condemn violence and rid Nigeria of all unscrupulous and anti - democratic elements. We must stay and live with each other as a people, and try to protect each other from our common enemies. We must stand united to speak out more and more powerfully against violence and repression even if it will inevitably bring us under criticism and outright persecution.

Remember, we are social beings and cannot live harmoniously except in relation to others. Selwyn Hughes tells his story thus: A woman wrote to me some years ago and said: ‘I  am at the point where I can get along without people.’ She finished her letter by pleading: ‘Please send me an encouraging word.’ What she needed was not encouragement but exhortation – exhortation to get back in relationship with someone[2]. So, let us reason together and get back in right relationship with one another to make Nigeria great. We must understand that we have a mutual obligation to work for peace and promote each other’s joy, happiness and welfare.

Rev. Fr. Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director media Service Centre, Kaduna Nigeria

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[1] Anthony J.V. Obinna, Reconciliation, Forgiveness and Peace, Building a New Nigeria, 2012

[2] Selwyn Hughes, Everyday with Jesus September/October 1994.

NIGERIA UNDER TERROR ATTACK

‘A good portion of the evils that afflict mankind is due to the erroneous belief that life can be made secure by violence’ – LEO TOLSTOY

Introduction

It would be impossible to sum up the problems and troubles of Nigeria, but some of the challenges are glaringly obvious – insecurity, ethnic and religious strife, food and energy shortages, air pollution and deforestation, economic development and poverty eradication,  human rights, democracy and good governance, environmental sustainability and the horrors of Boko Haram, blind violence and terrorism. But despite our poverty,  struggles and hardships, challenges and injustice, we must remain positive and determined to create a better and brighter future for our land. All of us citizens, religious leaders, politicians, and journalists are stakeholders in this collective efforts to make Nigeria great.

Recent events of terror attacks in Nigeria

Peace has always been one of humanity’s basic needs, yet hatred and violence seems to stifle this fundamental necessity. The vicious circle of conflict and warfare, attack and counter attack, strike and counter strike are breeding hatred, resentment and bitterness among our people, and tragically has caused many to weep, suffer and die in many parts of the world. Recent events of the gruesome terrorists attack in our nation, and the increasing wave of socio-political and ethno-religious crisis threatening our national security and corporate existence lately calls for serious attention and deep prayer for our innocent citizens. This string of attacks across the country with particular reference to the North, has assumed higher dimension witnessing spates of bombings, kidnappings, assassinations, abductions, gun attacks on key point and strategic areas of interest – Military formations, Churches, Schools, Market places, Banks and private residences by unidentified gun men on motor cycles, who trail their victims to attack and inflict serious injuries on them. These sad and ugly events bear witness to the painful chapter in the history of Nigeria in our times.

Sad Consequences of terrorism

Hundreds of people have been killed and more than a million have fled their homes because of Boko Haram insurgency. Many who have fled attacks from the North are now displaced refugees trying hard to settle in different parts of the federation. You practically know as well as I do that one of the most difficult things to do is relocate or change a place. Change in itself is endless, timeless and yet very engaging. Boko Haram attacks brings this point poignantly as it struck like a thunder lightening leaving behind pains, misery, fear, questions and questions.

Views of Some Prominent Leaders

In his January 9, 2012 address to the members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See, Pope Benedict XVI said: ‘In many countries Christians are deprived of fundamental rights and sidelined from public life; in other countries they endure violent attacks against their Churches and their homes. At times they are forced to leave the countries they have helped to build because of persistent tensions and policies which frequently relegate them to being second-class spectators of national life. In other parts of the world, we see policies aimed at marginalizing the role of religion in the life of society, as if it were a cause of intolerance rather than a valued contribution to education in respect for human dignity, justice and peace. In the past year religiously motivated terrorism has also reaped numerous victims, especially in Asia and Africa; for this reason, as I stated in Assisi, religious leaders need to repeat firmly that ‘this is not the true nature of religion. It is the antithesis of religion and contributes to its destruction’.[1]

Similarly, the Niger State Governor and Chairman of the Northern Nigeria Governors Forum, Babangida Aliyu at their just concluded meeting in Kaduna was compelled by recent events in the country to also lament: ‘It was unfortunate that insecurity has not abated; rather it is worsening and attaining very alarming dimension, with attendant negative implications for economic growth, development and image of the nation. Nigeria is passing through a very difficult phase in the history of the nation, a period that put our patriotism, nationalism, sincerity and responsibility collectively to test. This is the period that we have demonstrated individually and collectively our abiding faith in our nation, when we must confront the common enemies of the nation, those who are sworn to destroying the spirit of nationhood through wanton destruction of lives and property’.[2]

Again in a Teleconference with reporters on Wednesday May 16, 2012, the United States Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Ambassador Johnnie Carson explained that there is no end to Boko Haram without tackling poverty. ‘but with respect to Boko Haram, we have also said very clearly that we see the solution to this problem as both a security and socio-economic issue. There has to be a sound socio-economic strategy to address the enormous poverty which exists in Northern Nigeria. Both have to go hand in hand; and so we are willing and open to help Nigeria to deal with this domestic threat and recognize the seriousness of it; but again as I say, it requires a security strategy as well as a socio-economic strategy to ultimately resolve it.[3]

Efforts of Security Agents

Though our atmosphere at the moment is beclouded by apprehension, fear and  mutual suspicion as a result of this sectarian conflict inflamed by Boko Haram insurgency especially in the North, the presence of Security agents who themselves seem to be under pressure and over stretched is helping to calm our fears. They are kept on street alert at various check points under rain and sunshine, day and night to keep surveillance and help prevent further brutal attacks of suicide bombers. Although I salute and commend their efforts so far, more concerted effort is needed for their training and retraining to boost their capacity for intelligence gathering, crime detection, and exploration of new ways to counter terrorism. The Daily Trust of May 17, 2012 reported how the Joint Task Force (JTF) in Kogi State led by Lt. Col. Gabriel Olorufemi uncovered Explosive Devices and other arms and ammunitions in the State. The weapons were buried in the ground in a thick forest in the border between Okenwe end of Kogi State and Igara end of Edo State. Items recovered were one Berreta pistol, two revolver pistols, one sub machine gun, one sub magazine, 10 AK 47 raffles, 57 AK magazines, 545 live ammunitions, 55 rounds of MM-pistol rounds; 4 magazine waste belts, 14 units of locally made hand grenades, 8 anti-tank Improvised Explosives Devices (IEDs), one firing cable, three 9 volts power source and one jeep.[4] This is highly commendable.

Our apathy and Complacency as a people

In our today’s world, impatience is all too common a trait. We want food, help, information, promotion, justice, growth and peace fast. Increasingly, we grow disappointed and frustrated when thing don’t go according to plan. Yet the almighty God specializes in slow, steady work to change us and transform our country. He is more interested in a quality outcome than a speedy process. It is a pity that the Nigerian people though religious have become apathetic and complacent about spiritual things, and our failure to apply Biblical and Koranic truths has caused many reckless death and wanton destruction of property. We seem to move through life thoughtlessly and recklessly reacting to national situation, yet never learning from them, but instead subtly fanning the embers of division and disaffection through religiously motivated terrorism. We must remember that life cannot be made secured by violence.

Conclusion

I conclude and concur with the words of the Rt. Rev. Richard Harries who said on BBC Radio September 2004 that: ‘It is not always possible to be optimistic about the world, and certainly it is very difficult now. But even if you are not optimistic, some words of Vaclav Havel remain true. He wrote: ‘Hope is not the expectation that things will turn out successfully, but the conviction that something is worth working for, however it turns out’. So I remain absolutely convinced that the problem of our era, such as fear of war, terrorism and all forms of violence should inspire us to live in greater conformity to our religious and democratic value, to pave a way for the beginning of an unprecedented period of both political and economic progress for Nigeria.

As a nation with enormous promise and potentials, we must unite to harness our potentials to help our people improve their livelihood, and social status through empowerment programs of education and skills acquisition, and by encouraging them to take part as stakeholders in community and national decisions, while working for the promotion of equal rights in our present democratic setting.

Rev. Fr. Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director, Media Service Centre Kaduna Nigeria,

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[1] Messenger of St. Anthony Magazine, March 2012 edition.

[2] THE NATION, May 18, 2012

[3] THE NATION, May 18, 2012

[4] Daily Trust, May 17, 2012

A LIVING HOPE AND PROMISE OF THE RESURRECTION

‘I am the resurrection and the life, he who believes in me though he dies, yet shall he live’ (John 11:25)

Introduction

Naturally, just as we are usually very aware of the physical realities and happenings around us – the seasons, the weather, the political climate, social events, our relationships and our physical health; So too we must not neglect our spiritual lives and environment in our struggle to read and understand the signs of our times, in order to respond positively to God as we deepen our relationship with the Lord.

Dear readers, the horrific happenings and brutal realities of our world saddens me and makes me feel quite helpless. The deepest and darkest experience of hostility and violence around the globe over the last couple of months makes my palms sweaty and stomach churn when I imagine admitting and accepting it as a Christian. Everyone seems to know what is wrong but without respite and solutions. Evil and wickedness seem to overwhelm us and make us powerless and helpless; even so as Christians we believe that God’s goodness is stronger and bigger than evil.

Trapped in Hostilities

Sadly trapped in these violent hostilities, we have been experiencing deepening crises in parts of Plateau, Kaduna, Niger, Bauchi, Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, Kano and Sokoto States; bomb explosions in Madalla, Suleja, Maiduguri, Mubi, Kaduna, Kano, and most recently in Jos at St. Finbarr’s Catholic Church, Rayfield seem to be unfortunately a direct attack on Christians in particular, and our innocent citizens in general. The Militant and extremist Islamic group (Boko Haram) have been responsible for a string of violent attacks and bloody suicidal mission that have killed more than one thousand people, maimed others, impaired the health of many and leaving our citizens living in fear for their lives over the last two years. It seems Boko Haram has become a cover for criminal activities and political thuggery of all sorts. We notice that anything that turns violent now in Nigeria can be easily blamed on them whether it has link to it or not. Now that the whole world seem to be dying and our nation seem to be collapsing; We must unite to fight the scourge of terrorism and kidnapping which can never be justified in anyway. The Nigerian people in particular are growing sick, wearied and tired of this endless cycle of intimidation, human rights abuse and repression which is growing by the day because it has been left to fester for too long. Yet in the midst of such gloomy thoughts and hopeless feeling; in the midst of this depressing scenario, the Church offers another vision to her people – a living hope and promise of the resurrection.

God’s great and precious promises

Though the times are difficult, rough and tough, but they are also times of great promise. God is ever faithful and His promises for us is an unshakable pledge of love and blessing. His promise reveal His intention to fill us with his life.

·         St. Paul wrote that God ‘destined us to be His sons and daughters through Jesus Christ’ (Ephesians 1:5). He desires that we be with Him in heaven forever.

·         St. John wrote: ‘this is the will of my father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him should have eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.’ (John 6:40).

·         The gospel of Luke states: ‘Fear not little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. (Luke 12:32).

·         St. Peter wrote: ‘You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people.’ (1 Peter 2:9).

·         The gospel of John states: ‘He who hears my word and believes Him who sent me, has eternal life; he does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.’ (John 5:24).

·         The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: ‘Through His divine gift of hope, we place our trust in Christ’s promises and rely not on our own strength, but on the help of the grace of the Holy Spirit’. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1817). Therefore, our lives can only be secure when they are rooted in God’s promise of eternal life – that is our Christian hope!

The Resurrection of Christ is the crowning truth of our Christian faith

The resurrection of Jesus from the dead is the crowning truth of our faith. It is the central truth upon which our faith in Christ is founded, and by which it is lived. This is what we celebrate at Easter which is a perfect time that invites us to embrace the new life from Christ. We must continue to rejoice in the life we have received from our loving God, and be filled with expectant hope that triumph over the fear of death. In fact, nothing gives us greater hope or peace than the Holy Spirit opening our hearts to God whose plans for us are wonderfully and unimaginably good. So we affirm that we are a resurrection people and alleluia is our song! Our hope in the resurrection is firm because it rests on the fact of Jesus’ resurrection. St. Paul wrote: ‘If Christ has not been raised… your faith is in vain.’ (1 Corinthians 15:14). As we allow the Holy Spirit to fill us with Jesus’ mercy and love, the fear of death will be broken, and we will experience great confidence in the Lord, because we trust that our lives are hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3-4).

For us Believers, the prospect of the end of the world or the end of our lives is meant to fill us with hope and expectations because we have been redeemed by Christ. Jesus Christ told His disciples that even in the midst of the most tumultuous events, His followers should be able to look up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near. (Luke 21:28).

Fruits of the Redemption accomplished by the Resurrection of Christ

The resurrection story is very striking and powerful. It is a miracle! Do you know the power and hope of the resurrection? Do you know that God loves you and wants you to be with Him forever? In His desire to bring us fully into His presence, God has bestowed upon us a great dignity – nothing, not even sin or death can triumph over God’s purposes. Jesus is risen and has conquered death. Death no longer has dominion over Him, nor over us (Romans 6:9). He invites all of us to live with Him forever in heaven. The power of the resurrection is ours now! Jesus assures us that we can experience joy, even in the midst of trials. Every day St. Paul knew God’s presence and so rejoiced in the life Jesus had won for him. Even when he was in prison with the threat of execution hanging over him, Paul knew the joy of a life – changing relationship with Jesus (Philippians 1:19-26). So, some of the fruits of redemption accomplished by Christ death on the cross and glorious resurrection are:

ü  Through Christ we achieve freedom from sin and so experience joy, peace and blessing

ü  He makes us partners in His heavenly glorification

ü  Through Christ we achieve Joyous prospect of eternal life

ü  Healing of wounded relationships

ü  Physical healing

ü  The joy of a victorious Christian life

ü  Through Christ the fear of death fades and melts away

Conclusion

Death is the ultimate enemy of every human being. It defeats us all. Jesus was the only one who conquered it. Just as the Father raised Jesus from the dead, so we too will rise again. Our helplessness as mortal human beings will let God demonstrate His power on our behalf in all things. So, today we can choose to live for Jesus. Today we can serve God wholeheartedly and celebrate Christ victory over sin and death because the power of the resurrection is ours now! God will enable us rise above circumstances. No outer hell can undermine the certainty of heaven which God has given us. Remember, It is not the circumstances but the ‘innerstances’ with God that determines our life.

Happy Easter to everyone!

Rev. Fr. Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director Media Service Centre Kaduna, Nigeria 2012

Oh beloved Nigeria! The land I love so well

Introduction

Oh Beloved Nigeria! The land I love so well; The land simply for ordinary people with simple life but with great potentials; the land of so many faces, voices and presence; the famous black nation of Africa and a big model to other African countries; the land of many possibilities and opportunities but punctured by greed, bribery and corruption; the land with people inwardly groaning and moaning over their woes as life gets tougher and harsher; the land rich with diversity of magnificent cultures, faiths and traditions; the land of lovable religious people but surrounded by crimes and many contradictions; the land with so many little children and youth with a great need for care and empowerment; the land where widows and orphans are traumatized and suffer deeply from grief and loss; and also suffer depression and anxiety with some physically and sexually abused; the land where too often widows become impoverished at the death of their husbands; the land of many hopes and promises but dotted with uncertainties.

Oh beloved Nigeria! Blessed and endowed with abundant natural and human resources but where these resources are plundered to serve the affluent lifestyle of few; blessed with rich and generous soil. Oh beloved Nigeria! The giant of Africa and the hope of the future and yet with many disfigured people, poverty, hardship, insecurity and now terrorism. Oh beloved Nigeria! the land of political turmoil and confusion; the land with so many brilliant projects haphazardly executed and where public funds are not monitored; the land with beautiful young people crying for peace, justice and security. Oh beloved Nigeria! Collectively struggling to obtain and defend its rights to wealth, power, and knowledge and to adhere to the rule of law; the land with cultural silence and taboo around sexuality leading to the high incidence of HIV/AIDS, and the difficulty of encouraging behavioral and attitudinal change; the land with great potentials for agriculture but where many farmers are not encouraged enough to diversify crops; the land with plenty of food but where children are undernourished with high infant mortality;  the land where military spending is high but health care spending is proportionately low; and the land sadly brought to its knees recently by reckless suicide bomb attacks, grenades and guns through violent militant and terrorist activities. Yet, even under these prevailing adverse circumstances, I love Nigeria and will continue to pray for Nigeria, a land of great promise and hope.

The many needs of Nigeria

Nigeria has many needs and we cannot claim to address them all. The great global pressures dominated by the industrial and economic forces have put serious demands on our families and communities. The impact of HIV and AIDS continue to challenge us as  nation and put a strain on our human and financial resources. The declining education and moral standards among our young people is a huge challenge. Without education, fear prevent our people from questioning the causes of their poverty, and are unable to criticize government policies and traditions which keep them perpetually oppressed; without quality education, our people are unable to contribute to the development of their country in a way that enhances the dignity of every person. Internal conflicts, violence, and militant terrorism have led to economic collapse, human rights abuses, increasing numbers of refugees, disabled people, orphans and internally displaced persons.

Decades of political freedom and struggles so far

Nigeria occupies the most important place in the affairs of Africa. For even after decades of political freedom, Nigeria is still trying and struggling to achieve stability and progress with her new found democracy still under experiment for about twelve years now, after a long period of despotic military dictatorship. We have witnessed even in our post Independence era, the absence of deep conviction in our common goals, the unity of our country, and a necessity for peace. The absence of love and mutual trust among the citizens of Nigeria have caused us lots of problems – geography of enmity, discriminatory deprivation based on ethnicity,  hatred among peoples, classes and ethnic groups, mutual opposition, non-cooperation, ethnic rivalries, dissension, widespread unrest, hostilities and lack of harmony; communal clashes, militant insurgency, revolts and guerrilla warfare.

Unfortunately, religious hatred have also given rise to incessant riots and blood lust  leading to killing of our innocent citizens and destruction of property. The result of all these have been increasing violence, chaos and blind prejudices; growing insecurity and pervasive sense of frustration. We need to stand united under our democratic government to conquer tribal prejudice and ethnic segregation because it continues to breed hate, intolerance, fear and violence in our country, leading to fatal polarization of our people. In fact, because of past historical antecedents, we unfortunately see ourselves as problems, a group against a group; a section against a section; a region against a region, and Muslims against Christians.

Our headaches and Challenges

In Nigeria, there is impoverished economy linked with bad governance;  fear has invaded our hearts, hatred and the injury to others have become the rule of life; the hope and resilience of youth have dwindled and disappeared; there is institutional corruption, regionalism, tribalism, and the strong belief in the class superiorities and inferiorities often associated with class monopolies of key professions. This has given rise to a clique of wealthy powerful rulers who exert social, economic and even constitutional pressure in order to maintain their supremacy. The perpetuation of these rigid and inflexible hierarchies does not give room for comprehensive national development. We note that anyone who places regional interest, far above  his national affiliation will certainly not give support to those national initiatives and activities necessary to achieve integral development. The fact that regional and sectional interest dominates many of the senior people in the key sectors can be seen from the abuse of power that followed.

Chike Orjiako in his article titled: ‘Mr President, please appoint me a cabal’ in the Sunday Sun, March 18, 2012 edition gives this interesting story to buttress this fact. In a class of young adults rounding up their high school education in Lagos, the class teacher had asked a normal routine question as to what career the graduating students would want to pursue after school. Most of the students were proclaiming the usual Engineer, Doctor, Banker etc, until it was the turn of Uche, a rather average student in the class. Teacher: Uche as you are about graduating what career would you want to pursue? Uche: Sir, I will like to be a Cabal! The young man declared. Teacher: Uche! What the hell is that please? Uche: Sir, you know; Cabals are famous. They are the richest, smartest, boldest and most influential people in the country today. Even Mr. President fears and respects them even though it appears he appoints them. As  the dumbfounded teacher was still trying to gather his thoughts while other students are laughing at his choice of career, a confused Uche added that when he eventually realizes his ambition, he would see to it that most of his class mates laughing at him today will never benefit from his largesse. Cabals can’t be sacked, reprimanded or tried for any offence. They enjoy unique privileges and are virtuous beings doing powerful things without borders or restrictions.[1]

Furthermore, experts generally believe that in societies, in which tribal, sectional, regional, or family loyalties is more important than a somewhat remote ideal of national development, development effort is damaged, money is wasted, and unsuitable people are appointed. This opposing selfish tendencies are serious obstacles to social cooperation and national growth. It seems the Nigerian system has consistently rewarded mediocrity over genius; punishes the righteous and reward criminals with highest honors; marginalize the most vulnerable and defenseless and put them to the mere fringes of life without decency and dignity.[2]

Lessons we are passing on

Consequently in Nigeria, the lesson we have passed on is that violence pays and has become the legitimate weapons for geo-political, regional and national negotiation. We have also passed on the lesson that no matter how wicked, ruthless, reckless and unscrupulous we are, we can be honored and rewarded by a society that does not have a merit and value system. We hope that the revolutionary increase in the number of educated and morally sensible citizens will result in a generation of graduates, and young people with great intellectual capital to challenge the prevailing unjust structures and contribute to national growth.

Our resolves as a people

We are proud of Nigeria, its rich history and culture, its strong tradition and diversity of peoples, faiths and religions. We acknowledge that belonging to Nigeria involves rights and responsibilities. The peace of our nation cannot be secured by ignoring the conflicts and sufferings of our people; For war and violence anywhere is a threat to peace everywhere. Therefore, we must stand united towards ensuring the actualization of the Millennium Development Goals:

• Eradicating extreme poverty and hunger
• achieving universal primary education
• promoting gender equality and empowering women
• reducing child mortality rates
• improving maternal health
• combating HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases
• ensuring environmental sustainability, and
• developing a global partnership for development.

Conclusion

Oh beloved Nigeria! How I wish we will turn to each other and renew our commitment to live in peace and security, be our brothers and sisters keepers; have a decent standard of living and a fair share of resources. How I wish we can stand united to reject religious racism, discrimination, ethnic prejudice, intolerance, blame-casting and violence. In this age committed to democratic reforms, how I wish we can also create conditions and atmosphere in which peace can emerge by striving for the development of deprived communities and by working for integral human progress. We can stop fanning the embers of discord and division by inspiring a sense of nationalism and patriotism in the hearts of our people. We can also eradicate violence from the hearts of our people and create environment of safety and peace by striving to change those structures that hold our people in social, economic and psychological bondage. Now is the time for action and less talk. God bless Nigeria!

Rev Fr Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director Media Service Centre Kaduna Nigeria, 2012

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[1] Sunday Sun, March 18, 2012

[2] BARTHOLOMEW IFEMESIA, Moral Revolution in Africa, Holmes Weber, Publishing Company Ltd, Enugu Nigeria, 1985.

ROOTED AND BUILT IN CHRIST JESUS

‘Keep your roots deep in Him, build your lives on Him, and become stronger in Faith as you were taught. And be filled with thanksgiving.’ (Colossians 2:7)

Introduction

Youth are a special people. I truly trust in our capacity for goodness, success, achievements and victory. But for us to become Vibrant, Alive and Active youth (VAA); for us to become Hopeful, Optimistic and Positive youth (HOP); for us to have Greater, Strength and Courage (GSC), we must be rooted and built in Christ Jesus. Let us give this matter a careful thought drawn from the beautiful story of Jesus on the two house builders; one of whom built his house on sand, while the other chose to build on rock. A fierce storm blew up, and the house built on sand fell apart whereas the house built on rock stood firm (Matthew 7:24-27). What a remarkable illustration?

The Parable of the two house builders

Jesus said; ‘Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mind and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built His house on the rock.’ (Matthew 7:24). One thing is sure, severe storms will come because not one of us knows what lies ahead – marriage break-up, redundancy, unemployment, bereavement, serious sickness, fire disaster, financial failure, war and violent terrorism. Without doubt, storms are most likely to affect us all at one time or another. We may worry,  become unhappy and tensed, we may doubt,  become desolate and desperate; the fact is that the follower of Jesus Christ does not build a house in land where there are storms, rather build a house that no storm can destroy because it is rooted in Christ Jesus. The pertinent questions to ask as Christian youth in the third millennium are: How do we prepare to meet and face these storms if they do come? What kind of house are we building? What is the foundation of our lives built on – shifting sand or on solid rock? How solid are our spiritual foundations?

A House no Storm can destroy

The secret of having a firm foundation for our lives as youth – a foundation which no storm can shift or destroy is to hear and heed the words of Christ. ‘Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mind and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built His house on the rock.’ (Matthew 7:24). In life we all face occasionally days of sunshine, sweeping rain and whistling winds, days of tempest and temptation. Under the pressure of these storms, some of us crumble and are rendered homeless. Others survive the storm and remain intact and safe. The difference in my thinking is the foundations. While some build on sand, others build upon rock. For us then, Jesus Christ is our place of refuge and rest, of security and strength from which we can move out to the world. If we want to build a secure place for our inner life, then we must pay good and close attention to the foundations. How do we do that? What do we need to do in order to ensure that we are dwelling in a house which no storm can destroy? Our Lord makes it clear in the introduction of the story of the two men and two houses: ‘Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mind and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built His house on the rock.’ (Matthew 7:24). Note the phrase and puts into practice. Many hear but do not heed. Thus their lives crumble in the time of storm. We can only live well and wisely when we are rooted in Christ.

What we must do to be rooted and built in Christ

Jesus tells us what we must do to have an unshakable and firm foundation for our lives as youth:

·         To hear, heed, believe and practice His words. There is no better and surer foundation than the truth in Jesus’ words

·         Self-renunciation and facing the fact of our spiritual bankruptcy. We do not have the inner resources to make it through life alone, and later to heaven. We need the help of God. We have to acknowledge our weakness and admit our need for assistance and say to God: ‘Help! I cannot make it on my own’.

·         Surrender our ego to Christ, because we are never designed to be ego-centred individuals but Christ-centred. Life begins in self-surrender, that God’s miraculous power is available to us only when we learn to say: ‘We need help’. Jesus does not reduce people to zero, but raises them to their zenith.

·         Be salt and light to the world (Matthew 5:13-16)

·         Obey His statues and fulfill the law

·         Control our thoughts and align them always to God’s will (Philippians 4:8-9)

·         Avoid anger, negative and malicious thinking (Ephesians 4:26-32)

·         Make time for prayers

·         Give  to the needy and share with the poor

·         Trust God and stop worrying

·         So much of Jesus’ truth is condensed in the Beatitude (Matthew 5:1-12). Grab the Beatitude apply them day by day to your life, and you will have a firm foundation that no storm will be able to destroy.

Conclusion

I conclude by saying that it very important for us on this journey of faith together to grasp the truth that: We must belong to God before we can really find ourselves. If you have not surrendered your life to Jesus, then no matter how much you cultivate and assert yourself, you are still at the centre. You must place yourself at the feet of Jesus Christ in total surrender. Remember, you are not to be the centre - God is!

Rev Fr Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director Media Service Centre, Kaduna Nigeria 2012

EMBRACING FASTING THIS LENT

‘But even now, says the Lord, repent sincerely and return to me with fasting, and weeping and mourning. Let your broken hearts show your sorrow; tearing your clothes is not enough.’ (Joel 2:12-13)

Introduction

Lent is a very important time in Christendom. Many people try to do something special during it whether as individuals or community  – giving up something, taking up certain spiritual exercises, surrendering defective attitudes and conquering bad habits. Our Lenten exercise begins with the readings of the scene of the temptation of Jesus Christ in the desert, where He needed to reflect on the nature of His mission and to equip Himself to carry it out.  (Luke 4:1-13). We sincerely picture Christ in the solitude of the desert, and rejoice with His victory which He wants to share with us. We too like Jesus must embark on a special forty days program of prayers, reflection and fasting.

Preparing for  a better Lent

How can we make lent more spiritually fulfilling and fruitful? It is not just a season we simply pass through, attending parties after parties or shopping for assorted gifts, with little spiritual benefits. Generally, doctors recommend regular check-ups to make sure that our bodies are functioning properly. Though we might not even realize something is wrong, undetected problem could potentially cause other health issues. The same is true with our spiritual relationship with God and with one another. Lent is a time for spiritual check-up, reappraisal and evaluation of our lives. Just as some people are nervous about seeing their physician, so we might also feel fearful of inviting the Holy Spirit to examine our lives and to help lighten our path. But we cannot hope to share his victory unless we fight His battle; and to fight His battle, we have to face the ‘desert’ – to fast and pray, and to die to our old selves. Today, everybody wants to seek something for themselves – pleasure, glory, honor, and power. We recoil from the cross and the desert experience. Lent calls us to true conversion and repentance as we taste God’s mercy and totally surrender our lives to Him. For without His help we cannot change our lives. The fact that God loves us is undeniable. He said so in His word and demonstrates it through His Son, Jesus Christ.

The rewards of embracing fasting

Since the Church’s earliest days, Christians have fasted in preparation for significant holidays or holy days. This lent, try giving up something. Traditional fast include meat and dairy, but what we give up matters less than the spirit in which we do so. Fasting should be challenging, but it need not be excessive. The purpose is greater awareness of, and devotion to God – letting Him remain the focus of our attention in the midst of the midst of activities that would otherwise distract us. Other options could be limiting media, such as television, film, music or internet usage to allow more time for Scripture reading and prayer.

The rewards of embracing fasting are great:

§  We gain greater intimacy with the Lord and others. Regular communion with God helps us avoid many snares from over-indulgence and materialism to judging others, idolatry or apathy

§  Grow in Christlikeness and holiness

§  Fasting purifies our motives and helps us to discern God’s will

§  It helps us overthrow Satan and free ourselves from the worship of false gods

§  God remove any spiritual blockage that impede a close walk with Him

§  Our energies is renewed as resentment, fear and other ungodly attitude stop draining us

§  Following and Serving God becomes a great joy, instead of duty

§  We have the opportunity to set our goals and priorities right

§  We experience spiritual freedom through forgiveness, and this gives us deeper fulfillment, peace and joy.

Conclusion

Therefore, let this lent be for us a great time of fasting, repentance, prayer and great anticipation in the days leading to Easter. As our faith matures, it certainly becomes a time grace and  growing in holiness. As maturity is a life-long process, I believe that with the Word of God to enlighten us, and the Holy Spirit to strengthen us, we would become victorious like Christ over Satan.

Rev Fr Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director Media Service Centre Kaduna, Nigeria, 2012

THE FAITH OF CHRISTIANS IN TIMES OF PERSECUTION

‘I have told you this, so that you will not give up your faith. You will be expelled from the Synagogues, and the time will come when anyone who kills you will think that by doing this he is serving God… But I have told you this, so that when the time comes for them to do these things, you will remember that I told you’ (John 16:1-4)

Introduction

Witnessing for Christ in a world of confusion, a world that is often cruel, grasping, indifferent, skeptical and cynical becomes extremely difficult. How can we really stand for Jesus in troubled times? As Christians we do not live in a comfortable, safe, secured, sheltered and protected world. We live in a world full of confusion, temptation and trouble of every kind – violent insurgency, terrorism, ethnic bigotry, religious fanaticism, endemic corruption, political banditry, poverty, ignorance and disease. A world where we all have inhale the fatal germs of sin and human evil. It is in the midst of this world that we are expected to bear witness bravely to Christ. How can we let the light of Christ truth and goodness shine in the world? The common temptation is to isolate ourselves so as to keep ourselves free from contamination of evil and wickedness; we vanish into the crowd, and so lose our identity and sense of mission as Christians

Christ Warning and Assurance of Victory

Christ knew how rough and tough the world could be and told his disciples in advance about the trials, tribulations and persecution they would encounter. They would be hated by all on account of His name. They would meet all kinds false prophets speaking in His name. He told them that there would be terrible wars, earthquakes, plagues, famines and revolutions that will tear the world apart. There would be betrayal by members of their own families, imprisonment, trial and death. He urged them not to be afraid. Jesus Christ gave them assurance that in the end, His power will see them through all these trials. They were not to depend on their own cleverness or strength, but only on His help. ‘Everyone will hate you because of me, but not a single hair from your head will be lost. Stand firm, and you will save yourselves’ (Luke 21:17-19).

Witnessing requires great faith and Courage

Witnessing calls for great faith, courage and grace from God. How can we be bold and generous followers of Christ in the midst of skeptical and hostile world, in this turbulent and unpredictable times when our faith is ridiculed? (Matthew 10:32-33). We can truly be courageous witnesses for Christ in the following ways:

·        When our lives electrify the natural order

·        When we give public witness to Christ love, truth, goodness and justice on the trains and buses; in schools, offices, market, hotels, hospitals and play grounds.

·        Be true witnesses through the life of sacrifice, love, prayer and service

·        When we champion the cause of the poor, exploited and marginalized in the society by becoming the voice for the voiceless

·        When we make our homes, families and communities places of love, understanding, mercy and forgiveness.

·        When we become oasis of hope and freedom for our citizens.

In fact, Christ challenges us to walk without fear along the road of faithfulness. Only when we keep our eyes fixed on Christ can we:

Ø  Develop resistance and immunity to disease and the tyranny of wickedness

Ø  Have constant spiritual sterilization to live germ-free lives through prayers, confession and penance

Ø  Only then can we thrive, flourish, blossom and become healthy through His grace in a protected environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we realize that that though we are in the world, but we are not of the world. So in the midst of a chaotic world, we should become messengers of hope and bearers of the light of Christ.

^{Rev. Fr. Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director Media Service Centre Kaduna, Nigeria 2012}