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Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki Denies Allegations of Priest’s Wedding

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In response to circulating rumors, the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki in Ebonyi State has issued a statement refuting claims that one of its priests recently wedded his lover in the state.

The report, which surfaced on social media, alleged that a Catholic priest named Jude Obasi tied the knot with his partner on May 25th in Abakaliki, the state capital. The purported wedding was said to have taken place at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Abakaliki, with a photograph circulating online showing the priest and his supposed bride in wedding attire.

However, the Diocesan Chancellor, Matthew Opoke, has dismissed the claims, stating that there is no priest by the name of Jude Obasi within the diocese. Furthermore, he emphasized that the individual in the viral photograph does not resemble any priest known to the diocese.

Additionally, Opoke clarified that there is no church named Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Abakaliki, and no such event occurred in the area during the specified period.

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Opoke attributed the misinformation to a possible attempt by a blogger to garner increased traffic on their social media platforms. He asserted that the publication in question is false.

Subsequent investigations by PREMIUM TIMES revealed that the photograph accompanying the report originated from an unrelated incident in Kenya in October 2023. The image depicts a Kenyan Catholic priest named Edwin Gathang’i Waiguru, who married his longtime friend, Margaret Wanjira Githui. Waiguru had reportedly joined a Roman Catholic splinter group known as the Catholic Charismatic Church.

Residents of Afikpo North Local Government Area corroborated the diocese’s statement, affirming that no such event occurred in the area. An independent journalist from the region also confirmed the absence of any incident resembling the alleged wedding.

The Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki has denied the reports of a priest’s wedding, labeling them as false and misleading.

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Pastor Damina Takes strong stance on Church Controversies: Salvation, Hell, and the Truth About Tithing

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By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

In a thought-provoking appearance on TVC’s “Your View,” Pastor Abel Damina, founder of Abel Damina Ministries International, made waves by asserting that Christianity is the only faith that guarantees eternal salvation.

The televangelist, known for his unconventional views on heaven and hell, challenged prevailing beliefs by declaring that hell is not a fiery place, but rather a state of “utter darkness.” His teachings have ignited heated debates, attracting both fervent supporters and vocal critics who question his interpretations of scripture.

During the discussion, Damina emphasized that individuals across various religions ultimately seek salvation, a deep relationship with God, and forgiveness for their sins. However, co-panelist Dr. Maureen YK countered his claims, asserting that one cannot dismiss other spiritualities as ineffective without firsthand experience of their practices.

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Many followers of other religions remain spiritually unsatisfied and in search of true salvation

In a passionate defense, Pastor Damina shared insights from his 40 years of ministry experience, arguing that many followers of other religions remain spiritually unsatisfied and in search of true salvation.

Touching on the contentious topic of tithing, Damina clarified a recent video where he appeared to promote non-payment of tithes. He stressed that God is not a transactional deity and referenced Galatians 3:13 to assert that Jesus has already fulfilled the law’s requirements, making mandatory tithing irrelevant. He encouraged voluntary and cheerful giving, free from compulsion.

He stressed that God is not a transactional deity and referenced Galatians 3:13 to assert that Jesus has already fulfilled the law’s requirements, making mandatory tithing irrelevant

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As Damina’s teachings continue to stir controversy, his bold perspectives challenge traditional Christian beliefs and invite deeper conversations about faith and spirituality.

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First Lady denies leading national prayer

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The First Lady, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu, on Saturday, refuted reports that she will be leading a seven-day national prayer for Nigeria.

This followed a report last week that Mrs Tinubu and the National Security Adviser, Mrs Nuhu Ribadu, will spearhead a national prayer session to tackle the country’s numerous challenges.

The reports quoted the Director-General of the National Prayer Forum, Segun Afolorunikan, announcing the event in Abuja.

Afolorunikan had said the initiative, coordinated with Christian and Muslim religious leaders, intends to seek divine intervention for the country’s socio-economic and security issues, under the theme ‘Seeking the Intervention of God in Nigeria’s Affairs.’

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“Christians will meet at the National Ecumenical Centre for a week of intense prayer, with prayer warriors from various denominations focusing their efforts on the nation’s adversities,” said the convener.

However, the First Lady has denied knowing any such arrangement saying a call for prayer must be done “willingly, conscientiously and correctly.”

Mrs Tinubu’s Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mrs Busola Kukoyi, conveyed this in a statement she signed Saturday titled ‘First Lady of Nigeria Oluremi Tinubu, CON refutes organising national prayer.’

It read, “This is to clarify and inform the general public that the First Lady of Nigeria is not organising a national prayer.

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“The news making rounds in some conventional and social media platforms is unfounded and misleading.

“Consequently, anyone who might have come across the purported news of the joint National Prayer for Nigeria should disregard it as false.”

Kukoyi said the First Lady, a Christian and strong advocate of prayer and praying for Nigeria, believes that prayer is an act that must be done willingly, conscientiously and correctly.

“She also believes that praying for Nigeria is the responsibility of every Nigerian, irrespective of religious belief, political affiliation, tribe or tongue.

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“Members of the public are advised to verify the authenticity of any news or event involving the First Lady of Nigeria or her office through official channels,” the statement concluded.

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25 Shops destroyed as fire guts building in Ilorin

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A building of 25 shops has been gutted by fire in the early hours of Saturday in Ilorin, the Kwara state capital.

According to the state fire service, the incident occurred at Adeta roundabout at about 02.39 hours.

A statement in Ilorin on Saturday by the spokesman of the service, Hassan Adekunle, said the firefighters, upon arrival, found a block of about 25 shops engulfed in flames.

“Thanks to the swift action and bravery of the Kwara State fire service officers, only three shops suffered damage, including a soft drinks and alcohol shop.

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“Preliminary investigations indicated that the fire was caused by a power surge,” the statement disclosed.

The Director of the State Fire Service, Prince John Falade Olumuyiwa, expressed sympathy for the affected shop owners, offering prayers for the restoration of their losses.

He also urged the public to prioritize safety and ensure all electrical appliances are unplugged when not in use.

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