Clergy Leaders Convene in Lagos, Call for Urgent National Reforms and Unity

 

By oluwaseyi fadoro 

Religious leaders from across Nigeria gathered in Lagos for a high-level press conference to address the state of the nation, urging government action and collective responsibility to steer the country toward stability and progress.

The event, held at the Radisson Blu Hotel Ikeja Lagos, brought together prominent Christian figures under the platform of the Cross Campaign. The leaders expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges and called for immediate reforms to improve the lives of citizens.

Speaking at the conference, Dr Felix Omobude of the New Covenant Gospel Church in Benin emphasized the need for unity and faith-driven values. He urged Nigerians to “learn from the message of the cross,” stressing love, sacrifice, and national commitment.

“We are full-blooded Nigerians who love our nation,” he said. “Our goal is to build a better country and leave a stronger foundation for future generations. Nigerians are not asking for too much—basic necessities, freedom of worship, and a nation where justice and fairness prevail.”

Also addressing the gathering, former Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) Chairman, Bishop Mike Okonkwo, lamented the current economic hardship facing citizens.

“It is no longer news that the economy is struggling. People are suffering, and many are forced into extreme conditions,” he said. “We have no other country to call our own, and we trust God that our dreams for Nigeria will come to pass.”

Okonkwo further called on the government to declare a state of emergency on critical issues affecting citizens, particularly at the grassroots level, where hardship is most severe.

Former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, also spoke at the event, urging political leaders to prioritize service over personal gain.

“Politics should be about serving the people,” he said. “Citizens must also take responsibility by voting for credible candidates rather than blindly following political parties.”

He further advocated for stronger security measures, including the empowerment of the military, the establishment of state police, and decisive action against terrorism and violence across the country.

The clergy also called for the independence of key democratic institutions such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary, emphasizing that no individual should be above the law. They warned against electoral malpractice and urged voters not to sell their votes.

The conference concluded with a unified call for national healing, justice, and accountability, as well as a renewed commitment by religious leaders to continue advocating for the well-being of all Nigerians.