Founder of the Global Parish Church of the Celestial Church of Christ, Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe known generally as Genesis, has pleaded with Nigerians, both home and abroad, to be cautious in their reactions to the U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments regarding Nigeria.
He made the plea in a statement made available to Church Times on Thursday..
Oladele who said he has been observing the reactions of Nigerians’ to Trump’s threats of a possible military option to stem the tide of insecurity in the country said the crisis caused by Boko Haram and other terrorists groups affect all Nigerians irrespective of religion.
He noted that the Trump administration designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) due to severe violations of religious freedom. claiming that “Nigeria is facing an “existential threat” or “Christian genocide,” alleging that the Nigerian government is “allowing” these atrocities to take place.”
He however said , “I am a leader and a founder, and I believe it is my duty to protect my followers who share the same faith. However, it would be incorrect to claim that the crisis is solely a Christian issue. While many Christians have been killed, we must also acknowledge that many Muslims have lost their lives, particularly in the northern part of the country.”
According to him the possibility that the United States may have hidden agenda aimed at seizing our resources and assets, cannot be overruled
He then urged Nigerians to be cautious. “What everyone in Nigeria needs is to demand good governance from our president. Once accountability is established, we can start to see real improvements. We do not need foreign assistance that could further weaken our country,” he stated.