The Oyo State chapter of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) on Sunday organized a Pentecostal Day Rally in Ibadan, calling for an end to the escalating insecurity in the country. The event also featured fervent prayers for the safe return of abducted teachers, students, and other victims of recent attacks across Nigeria.
Community Sensitisation Rally
The rally, tagged Community Sensitisation, took place at Men of Issachar Vision Inc., located in Olororo, Ojoo, Ibadan. It was led by the Deputy Chairman 1 of the Oyo State PFN, Bishop Matthew Olubusuyi. The gathering drew numerous ministers of God who engaged in intense prayers against the rising wave of insecurity, urging divine intervention for peace, stability, and the protection of innocent citizens.
Prayers for Abducted Victims
Religious leaders, ministers, and Christians specifically prayed for the release and safe return of schoolchildren, teachers, and other individuals currently in captivity following recent abductions in parts of Oyo State and other regions of the country. The prayers reflected deep concern over the safety of citizens and the need for urgent action.
Peaceful Procession and Placards
The event included a peaceful procession and the display of placards within the church premises. The placards bore various inscriptions expressing public concern over insecurity and socio-economic challenges. Some of the messages read: “Let Nigerians Live”, “Every Life Matters”, “We Deserve Peace”, “Nigeria Must Be Safe”, “Protect the Innocent”, “Stop the Killings”, “No to Insecurity”, “End Bloodshed in Nigeria”, “Save Nigeria from Terror”, “No to Economic Hardship”, and “Enough is Enough”. Other placards urged authorities to intensify efforts, with calls such as “Seek Help if You Cannot Do It” and “We Deserve Peace”.
Clerics Express Concern
The clerics expressed grave concern over the rising wave of violence, kidnapping, and economic hardship. They warned that continued insecurity could further destabilize communities and hinder national development. The religious leaders called on government at all levels, security agencies, and stakeholders to intensify efforts toward restoring peace, protecting lives, and ensuring the safe return of all abducted persons. They emphasized that collective action is needed to address the root causes of insecurity and to build a safer Nigeria for all.
