By Francis Sadhere
The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor has called on Nigerians to embrace one another and live in peace and harmony.
Pastor Ayo made this call today while praying for Nigeria during the commendation service held in honour of the late Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse II at the Palace of the Olu of Warri, Delta State.
Pastor Oritsejafor prayed for prosperity of the nation and the unification of the people in the country, saying that God did not make a mistake when he created Nigeria.
The CAN President said: “We are like the disciples that are instructed to enter into a boat. When the storm came we were not afraid because Jesus was in the the boat. I ask that heaven will orchestrate genuine reconciliation in Nigeria. From East to West and North to South there will be genuine reconciliation. Nigeria will not just be a country but a real nation. I speak peace from Maiduguri to Calabar, from Port Harcourt to Katsina.”
The commendation service which witnessed arrays of dignitaries from within and outside the state was colorful in nature as different Itsekiri dance groups came with their different regalia, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Itsekiri nation.
Earlier in his sermon, the guest speaker of the commendation service, Rev. (Dr.) Wilson Badejo, Former General Overseer, Foursquare Gospel Church said the late Olu has lived above 70 and should be celebrated, adding that the late Olu has served his people well for 28 years and he has fulfilled his mission here on earth.
He urged those that are alive to handle life with care as life is too short. He also told the Iwere people no to allow their heart be troubled because of the death of the Olu of Warri, but that they should believe in God to see them through whatever pain they are going through right now.
He described the Olu of Warri as a very humble king who knew his position in the sight of God, stressing that the late Olu had never shown any sign of arrogance whenever he was in the house of God.
He said the Olu of Warri, apart from attending church service all the time, did evangelism any time the opportunity offered itself.
Rev. Badejo admonished Nigerians to think of how they will you keep the appointment of the great day of God when they will be ushered into the presence of God.
He advice that people should not erect any form of stature of the late Olu to serve as a reminder to them, stressing that if they do that they will loss the power of God in their lives.
He said a man is said to be dead when the spirit of God leaves his body and can no longer walk on the surface of the earth. He also reminded the people that their stay on earth is only temporary.
The first Bible reading taken from the book of John 11:11-17 was read by the regent of Warri kingdom, Chief Eroro Emiko while the second reading taken from the book of1 Thess. 4:13-18, was read by Prince Dr. Ayu.
